Calling on the Government of the Russian Federation to immediately release United States citizen Paul Whelan.

Bill 118 H.Res. 272, also known as the resolution calling on the Government of the Russian Federation to immediately release United States citizen Paul Whelan, was introduced in the US Congress with the aim of addressing the detention of American citizen Paul Whelan in Russia.

Paul Whelan, a former Marine, was arrested in Moscow in December 2018 on charges of espionage, which he denies. The resolution calls on the Russian government to release Whelan immediately and ensure his safe return to the United States.

The resolution highlights the concerns about the lack of due process and transparency in Whelan's case, as well as the reports of mistreatment and poor conditions in the Russian prison where he is being held. It also emphasizes the importance of protecting the rights of American citizens abroad and upholding international norms of justice and human rights. The resolution has garnered bipartisan support in Congress, with lawmakers from both parties expressing their concern for Whelan's well-being and calling for his release. It is seen as a way to put pressure on the Russian government to address the situation and ensure that Whelan is treated fairly and in accordance with international law. Overall, Bill 118 H.Res. 272 is a non-partisan effort to advocate for the release of an American citizen who is being held in Russia under questionable circumstances. It reflects the commitment of the US Congress to protecting the rights and safety of American citizens abroad and upholding principles of justice and human rights.