Calling on the Government of the Russian Federation to Immediately Release United States Citizen Paul Whelan

Floor Speech

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Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of House Resolution 272, and call on the Russian government to release United States citizen Paul Whelan. I thank my colleague, Congresswoman Haley Stevens, for her continued work on this important issue.

It has now been four-and-a-half years since Paul Whelan, a marine veteran and Michigan resident, was imprisoned in Russia.

After a sham trial, he was sentenced to 16 years in prison without proper evidence.

Vladimir Putin is focused on using American hostages as leverage against the United States.

We have seen prisoner swaps bring other Americans home but, tragically, Paul has been left behind in Russia.

As the Whelan family stated, the Russians are using Paul Whelan as an example of how America does not treat our citizens equally.

If there was ever a time for the U.S. Government to move decisively for Paul, it's now.

Congress can send a strong message today by passing this resolution, and we hope the administration will follow suit.

I've met with members of the Whelan family on many occasions.

Despite these long agonizing years, they continue to be pillars of strength.

It's time for Paul Whelan to come home to Michigan and be returned to his family.

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