Biden-Harris administration brings unjustly detained Americans back home peacefully

LANSING, MI - On August 1, 2024, Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II issued the following statements after the Biden-Harris administration negotiated for the safe release of Michigander and United States Marine Paul Whelan, journalist Evan Gershkovich, and other Americans from Russia.

“Today, a Michigan family can breathe a long sigh of relief after a years-long nightmare,” said Governor Whitmer. “Paul Whelan, a proud United States Marine and Michigander is finally coming back home along with Evan Gershkovich, a journalist, and several other Americans. When Paul was unjustly arrested in 2019, he was on his way to Michigan, and I am grateful to the Biden-Harris administration for successfully negotiating his peaceful release. It’s been five long years, and I know Paul’s family and every Michigander is excited to welcome him with open arms and lots of love.”

“The whole state of Michigan is thankful and relieved that Paul Whelan, Evan Gershkovich, and other Americans are coming home,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “Thanks to tireless diplomacy by the Biden-Harris administration, they have been freed from cruel and unwarranted detention in Russia. Today is a testament to our power to get things done and leave no American behind. My thoughts are with Paul and Evan’s families and friends who have waited so long to welcome them back.”