Russian prosecutors asked a court on Monday to sentence former US Marine Paul Whelan.<br />Whelan is accused of being at least a ranking US military intelligence colonel, caught red-handed trying to obtain secrets.<br />According to Reuters, Whelan's lawyer said prosecutors want his client sentenced to 18 years in a maximum security prison.<br />The prosecution has made a very harsh demand, it’s absolutely unjustified and groundless. To be honest, we’re in shock. Vladimir Zherebenkov Attorney for Paul Whelan<br />US Ambassador in Moscow John Sullivan said the proceedings amounted to a 'secret trial' and a 'mockery of justice'.<br />“There is no legitimacy to a procedure that is hidden behind closed doors. It is not transparent, it is not fair, and it is not impartial. Ambassador John Sullivan US Ambassador to Russia
