In a recent video released by the state-controlled media outlet Russia Today (RT), Paul Whelan, the American citizen who has been detained in Russia since 2018, is seen in a prison camp environment. The footage, unveiled on Monday, presents Whelan in a prison uniform alongside fellow inmates, engaging in activities such as operating a sewing machine and sharing meals.

In the video, Whelan chooses not to engage with questions from the RT reporter. Politely declining the interview, he asserts, 'So you understand when I say that I can't do an interview, which means I can't answer any questions.'

Whelan, a Marine Corps veteran, has been held in Russia on espionage charges he vehemently denies, resulting in a 16-year sentence in 2020. The newly revealed 6-minute video has garnered mixed reactions. While his brother, David Whelan, referred to it as propaganda, he acknowledged that it offered the first clear visual of Paul since June 2020.

David Whelan explained that the RT crew visited the IK-17 prison colony in May, where Paul is incarcerated. He noted that not only did Paul decline the interview, but prison staff also reacted unfavorably when he chose not to participate.

Reflecting on the video, David Whelan expressed, 'I wish I could see Paul under better circumstances. But it was good to see him again and to see the fight remains in his eyes. It is good to know Paul remains unbowed.'

The U.S. State Department has consistently maintained that Paul Whelan is wrongfully detained. Secretary of State Antony Blinken previously discussed Whelan's situation with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in March. During the meeting, Blinken emphasized the U.S.'s determination to secure the release of American citizens unjustly detained globally, including Whelan.

Highlighting their engagement with Whelan, the White House affirmed that U.S. officials have communicated with him over the past several months. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre conveyed, 'It was reassuring to see that he remains, and this is to use his brother's words, 'unbowed.' Paul continues to show tremendous courage. His circumstances are truly unacceptable, and we will continue to be very clear about that. Russia should release him immediately.

Gabriel North

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