The family of imprisoned former United States Marine Paul Whelan is defending President Joe Biden and his decision to swap WNBNA superstar Brittney Griner for convicted arms dealer Viktor Bout in a deal with the Russian government.
Biden defended the actions himself last week after announcing Griner’s freedom. He also said that America would never stop negotiating for Whelan’s release. His family welcomed the news. The family issued a statement earlier this week clarifying their pro-Biden position.
“The announcement of imminent discussions with the Russian Federation is also positive news,” the family said, according to The Hill.
“These initial steps give us hope that the third time is the charm,” the family continued, referring to two previous failed efforts to free Whelan. White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said Monday that the U.S. will soon have “an engagement” with Russian officials.
“We have had regular engagement of course along the way and the next conversation at a high level will take place this week,” he said.
Whelan is currently serving a 16-year sentence on espionage charges. He blasted Biden in the hours following the announcement about Griner’s release. Biden has faced criticism from the likes of former president Donald Trump for leaving the former Marine to rot.
[The Hill]
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