In a recent television interview, Elizabeth Whelan, the sister of Paul Whelan, an American held captive in Russia for the past five years, shared details about her meeting with President Biden. The Whelan family had been seeking this meeting for months, and Elizabeth expressed gratitude for the opportunity to discuss her brother's case with the President.
While Elizabeth did not divulge the specific details of the meeting, she emphasized that President Biden demonstrated understanding and a sensible approach. The family believes that the President's experience and calm demeanor are essential in ensuring that their efforts to secure Paul's release are conducted thoroughly, efficiently, and with urgency.
Elizabeth expressed her confidence that the President and various government agencies are working diligently to bring Paul home. She acknowledged that progress had been made over the past year, especially since her sister, Brittany, was able to return to the United States. However, Elizabeth did express a desire for a faster resolution, urging for a unified effort and deployment of all available resources.
During the interview, Elizabeth also referred to a recent conversation Paul had from prison with a journalist. In the conversation, Paul pleaded with President Biden to 'pull out the stops' and do whatever is necessary to bring him back to the United States. He emphasized that if his life is not worth the effort, he does not know what is.
Elizabeth firmly believes that President Biden is aware of Paul's situation and deeply cares not only for her brother but for every American being held captive. She acknowledged the challenges faced by the President in dealing with foreign countries attempting to coerce the United States. However, she called upon Russia to release Paul and criticized their lack of good-faith negotiations thus far.
The Whelan family continues to advocate for Paul's release and hopes that the urgent and concerted efforts of the United States government, led by President Biden, will yield positive results. While Elizabeth recognizes the limitations faced by the President, she remains optimistic that her brother will be reunited with his loved ones soon.
Paul Whelan, a former Marine, was arrested in Russia in December 2018 on charges of espionage, which he vehemently denies. Throughout his imprisonment, his family has been tirelessly campaigning for his release, arguing that he is innocent and has been subjected to harsh conditions and mistreatment.
