Senator Collins’ Statement on the Release of Evan Gershkovich and Paul Whelan from Russian Detention

Washington. D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued the following statement on the release of Evan Gershkovich and Paul Whelan from their detention in Russian prison following a prisoner swap:

“I join all Americans in cheering the release of Evan Gershkovich and Paul Whelan who were unjustifiably detained on bogus charges in Russia, suffered through sham trials, and were used as political pawns by Vladimir Putin.  I am heartened that these brave men will soon return home and be reunited with their families.

“Evan, an American journalist, and Paul, an American Marine, stand as examples of strength and resilience in the face of Putin’s increasingly brutal regime.”

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