A former US marine imprisoned in Russia on suspicion of spying has complained of “abuses and harassment” and says he is a “victim of political kidnap”.
Mr Whelan – a citizen of the US, UK, Canada and Ireland – was arrested in late December, accused of espionage. The 48-year-old denies the charges and told a court on Friday that he had been subjected to threats and abuse by a security service investigator.
The comments came as his pre-trial custody was extended until 29 August.
Mr Whelan told the court that there was “absolutely no legitimacy” to the case against him, describing it as retaliation for US sanctions. If found guilty, he faces up to 20 years in prison.
He said he had not showered in two weeks, was unable to access medical or dental treatment and had been denied access to books and letters sent to him months ago. “I’ve been threatened. My personal safety has been threatened. There are abuses and harassment that I am constantly subjected to,” he said.