American Arrested in Moscow Has Ties to Automotive Market

Paul Whelan was arrested in Moscow, Russia more than a week ago, with the Russian government alleging Whelan committed espionage.

Whelan’s family has repeatedly told the press that Whelan is not a spy for the American government. As the story continues to unfold-including this Detroit Free Press interview with Whelan’s twin brother-it was reported this week that Whelan is currently employed by BorgWarner. In response to the news the company issued the following statement:

“BorgWarner Inc. learned of the arrest of our employee Paul Whelan by the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) from news reports published Dec. 31, 2018. We can confirm that Mr. Whelan currently serves as the company’s director, global security. He is responsible for overseeing security at our facilities in Auburn Hills, Michigan and at other company locations around the world.

“BorgWarner has been in contact with the relevant U.S. Government authorities in order to help our employee and the U.S. government. We ask that any further inquiries regarding this issue be directed to the U.S. State Department.”