Paul Whelan: The American Former Marine Imprisoned in Russia

Landmark Prisoner Swap

In Room 3324 of Moscow's Metropol Hotel, Paul Whelan was preparing for a friend's wedding when Russian intelligence officers stormed in on December 28, 2018. The 28 agents from Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) detained the little-known former U.S. citizen, marking the beginning of a tumultuous experience that would make global headlines.

Exchange with the United States

Years later, Whelan was included in a landmark prisoner swap between Russia and the United States. On December 9, 2022, Whelan and American journalist Evan Gershkovich were among 26 prisoners from seven countries who gained their freedom.

Early Life

Paul Nicholas Whelan was born in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, in March 1970. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1994 to 2008, receiving honorable discharge and attaining the rank of staff sergeant.