US Spy Convicted in Russia Assaulted in Prison- Analysis

Paul Whelan, a former US Marine who is serving a prison sentence for espionage in Russia, has been injured in a fight with a Turkish inmate in a penal colony machine room. The Russian authorities have confirmed the altercation, stating that it was a “personal dispute” that escalated into a “conflict situation.” Whelan was struck in the face during the altercation and suffered a bruise under his eye. Prison officials intervened and broke up the fight, and Whelan was then taken to the medical wing for treatment. The incident was captured on security cameras and is currently under investigation.

According to a source cited by the Russian news agency Interfax, the inmate who attacked Whelan was from Turkey and had political differences with him. CNN also reported that Whelan released an audio statement claiming that he was assaulted by a 50-year-old Turkish prisoner with anti-American leanings. Whelan requested to speak to the prosecutor and press charges for the assault.

The US Embassy in Moscow has reportedly contacted Whelan and confirmed that he is receiving medical treatment. The State Department spokesperson urged Russia to ensure Whelan’s safety. Whelan’s Russian lawyer, Olga Karlova, stated that she is in contact with him.

Whelan, who has US, Irish, Canadian, and British passports, was arrested in Moscow in December 2018 for accepting classified documents from an undercover Russian officer. He was convicted of espionage in June 2020 and sentenced to 16 years in prison. Whelan denies the allegations, while the US claims that the charges are politically motivated. Whelan’s case has been linked to discussions of potential prisoner swaps between the US and Russia.

Source: RT news: Convicted US spy attacked in Russian prison