Blinken Reassures Frustrated Detainee Paul Whelan of Continued Efforts for Release on 5-Year Anniversary of His Detention in Russia
• Blinken spoke by phone with detained American Paul Whelan on Monday, assuring him the U.S. continues efforts to secure his release • This is at least the 3rd call between Blinken and Whelan, who has been detained in Russia for over 5 years • Whelan expressed frustration at being left behind in previous Russia-U.S. prisoner swaps • On the anniversary of his detention, Whelan urged Biden to use all resources to secure his release • U.S. says it has put significant offers on the table to try to obtain Whelan's release, but Russia has refused to negotiate