WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today released the following statement on the release of Evan Gershkovich and Paul Whelan. Mr. Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter falsely convicted of espionage in a sham trial and sentenced to serve in a penal colony, and Mr. Whelan, a prior service Marine jailed on baseless espionage charges, were released along with 14 others including political dissidents, other American citizens: 

“Today’s news is an incredible relief – for those released, their families, friends and colleagues who have fought tirelessly for their safe return. This is an important moment – for their safety and security, and also crucial to reinforce the importance of the free press and democracy.  

“I am thankful for the Biden-Harris Administration, the State Department’s Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs, and the diligent work of all those who assisted in this long process to secure release of these individuals.  

“Today’s momentous news is yet another reminder that we must stay the course with our partners and maintain strong alliances. The United States will continue to refute Putin’s brutal authoritarianism, illegal invasion of Ukraine and total disrespect and disregard for human life.” 

In May, Senator Welch joined the McCain Institute’s Sedona Forum for a panel discussion on the Tools of Statecraft: Wrongful Detainees and Hostage Affairs, with Ambassador Roger D. Carstens, Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs for the U.S. State Department. The discussion was moderated by Seung Min Kim of the Associated Press.  

###