In a recent phone interview from his prison cell with the BBC, Paul Whelan, a U.S. Marine veteran imprisoned in Russia for several years, expressed his fear that the United States has left him behind. Whelan, who critics believe is being held on false charges, described the lack of action by successive U.S. presidential administrations as a "serious betrayal."

Whelan highlighted the prisoner exchanges that have taken place between the United States and Russia in recent years, such as the release of female basketball player Brittney Griner, and expressed his disbelief that he has been left behind. He specifically referenced both the current Biden administration and the former Trump administration.

BBC reporter Sarah Rainsford, who conducted the interview, admitted that she had never seen Whelan as "pessimistic" or "frustrated" as he appeared during this conversation.

In response to these claims, a U.S. government spokesperson assured the BBC that they have initiated "multiple proposals" with the Russian government and are actively discussing Whelan's situation with allies. The spokesperson emphasized that there is ongoing intensive activity regarding Whelan's case.

However, Whelan expressed his awareness that the U.S. government's proposals for his release have not been accepted by Russia. He likened the situation to throwing spaghetti against the wall, with his life gradually slipping away while negotiations continue. Whelan has been imprisoned for five years.

Furthermore, Whelan criticized former President Donald Trump for rejecting a potential deal with Russia that would have secured his release. He expressed frustration, stating that he could have been home years ago, and feels abandoned due to the mistakes made by U.S. administrations.

While the current status of Whelan's case was not revealed, the U.S. government spokesperson confirmed that U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken remains personally committed to securing Whelan's freedom.

Last week, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared that any deal Russia makes to ensure the release of Americans must be "mutually acceptable," adding further uncertainty to Whelan's situation.

Whelan expressed deep concern that his case is being pushed to the back of the line as time passes and other cases take precedence. He voiced his worries about being left behind, describing the current juncture as concerning.

Additionally, the U.S. government spokesperson addressed reports of an assault on Whelan by another prisoner on November 28 at IK-17. The U.S. Embassy in Moscow has been in contact with Whelan and confirmed that he is receiving medical treatment following the incident.

Whelan's continued imprisonment and his belief that he has been abandoned by the United States has intensified calls for the U.S. government to take stronger action in securing his release. The case highlights the challenges and complexities of diplomatic negotiations in resolving such situations overseas.