Comment by the Information and Press Department on Paul Whelan, charged with espionage

In connection with the questions we have received, we want to update you on Paul Whelan, who is a citizen of the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland and Canada. As you know, he was arrested in Moscow on espionage charges in December 2018.  

Late in the evening on May 27, Paul Whelan complained to Lefortovo detention centre authorities that he felt much worse because of his deteriorating medical condition. Immediately after being examined by the doctors at the prison’s medical unit, he was taken to the Sklifosovsky Emergency Hospital.  

The next day, early in the morning, Paul Whelan underwent a minor surgery, which earlier, as we informed you, he had refused. On May 29, he was discharged fr om hospital and taken back to the detention centre. The man is receiving all the necessary appropriate medical care at the institution where he is being held in custody.  

The diplomatic missions of the countries wh ere Paul Whelan holds citizenship were informed of the surgery the man had undergone. On May 29, he spoke over the phone with the US Embassy.  

We would like to note that in contrast with some of our nationals who are serving sentences in American prisons and have to wait a long time for medical aid, Paul Whelan received it without delay.