Paul Whelan was devasted at being left behind in a Russian labor camp as other Americans were released

Former Marine Paul Whelan, who was held in Russian detention for over five years, expressed devastation when he learned that WNBA star Brittney Griner was being released while he was not. The U.S. had traded a convicted Russian arms dealer for Griner’s release, leaving Whelan behind. Whelan remained positive during his imprisonment by singing the national anthem every morning. He was finally released in August as part of a prisoner swap. Whelan faced harsh conditions in prison but refused to confess to false charges. He emphasized the need for strong diplomacy with leaders like Putin and criticized Trump’s claims about dealing with Putin. Despite difficult moments, Whelan never considered ending his life and remained hopeful throughout his ordeal. Whelan was flown to Turkey with a Russian minder and then to Joint Base Andrews in the U.S., where he was surprised to see CIA agents and President Biden. Weak and malnourished, he was the first to disembark and was touched when Biden pinned a flag pin on his prison clothes. He is readjusting to regular life with minor medical and dental issues and possible PTSD. While grateful for the support from his hometown, he is concerned about finding a job at his age and may have to reinvent himself.