WASHINGTON (Pakistan Point News / Sputnik - 23rd January, 2019) Canadian diplomats will visit Paul Whelan, who is currently in custody in Russia on espionage charges, on January 24, his brother David Whelan said in a statement on Tuesday.
US citizen Paul Whelan also holds Canadian, UK and Irish citizenship.
"We have learned that the Canadian consular staff are scheduled to visit with Paul on Thursday. We hope that it will occur," the statement said.
Earlier in the day, the Moscow City Court ruled down the appeal to release Whelan from detention.
Whelan's family is disappointed but not surprised by the court's decision, the brother said.
"We still lack any details from the Russian government about why Paul is thought to be a spy, and who provided him with the alleged state secrets, we are certain that he was entrapped and is not guilty of espionage," David added.
He noted the family believes that only government action can help return Paul home, and hopes additional steps will be taken to accomplish that.
David also expressed concern over the Russian government's decision to cancel US diplomats' visit with his brother last week. He also noted that Paul is worried about health issues, translator support and his ability to present his defense in English.
Whelan, 48, was detained on charges of espionage in Moscow in December. He denies the charges and insists he came to Russia to attend a friend's wedding.
