Staff Reports
Due to the increasing number of US citizens being detained by foreign governments, members of Congress have expressed their concerns about the situation. Two resolutions, HR 272 and HR 377, call for the immediate release of Paul Whelan and Evan Gershkovich. These actions highlight the growing use of American citizens as political pawns by nations such as Russia, China, Iran, and Venezuela.
Due to the lack of due process and the denial of basic human rights, many people are wrongfully detained in Russia. For instance, Paul John Terry, who was arrested in 2018, was sentenced to 16 years in prison. He was held in a Russian prison after being accused of espionage. In March 2023, journalist Gershko was also arrested and charged with espionage. This was the first time a journalist was apprehended in Russia since the Cold War.
The detentions of Americans abroad are unacceptable, and the Congress should do everything it can to get them released. Last year, Biden issued an executive order to address the issue. The House passed resolutions that show how serious Congress is about this matter.
Since the House did not have a two-thirds majority, the resolutions were not able to pass. As a result, further hearings on the bills were postponed. It is now up to Congress to ensure the release of Gershko, Whelan, and other Americans being held by foreign governments for political purposes.
The lack of evidence supporting the allegations against the two Americans is a worrying factor. The State Department has called for their immediate release, and various international organizations and news agencies have also urged Russia to release them. However, Russia maintained that its actions were in accordance with the country's laws.
While @RepHaleyStevens and I continue our work to bring wrongfully detained Americans home through our Hostage Task Force, I will continue to support resolutions like H.Res. 272 & 377 – which we are voting on today. We must show Paul Whelan and Evan Gershkovich our support. pic.twitter.com/TgBoHhEakX
— French Hill (@RepFrenchHill) June 12, 2023
The rising number of Americans being detained by foreign governments over the past decade has seriously affected the relationship between the US and other nations. This issue highlights the need for the US to stand up against such governments that violate the rights of their citizens.
Source: Red State
