CNN's Phil Mudd reveals why he's sure Russian captive is not a real spy

On Thursday, former CIA officer Phil Mudd said that Russia is using detained American Paul Whelan as a pawn.

While interviewing with CNN host Wolf Blitzer, Mudd said that Russia is detaining Whelan as a "set up" to free Russian citizen Maria Butina who was charged with conspiracy.

"You don't need to be an expert. This is a setup. I don’t think this individual is a serious player... This is not a serious spy game," Mudd said.

"Would you hire this guy?" Blitzer asked.

"Hell no. Did you look at his background? Not in my lifetime. You'll see indications that anybody in my business would look at him and say no way on God's green earth am I bringing this guy into security service," Mudd said.

"He was discharged for larceny," Blitzer added.

"I didn't say it, you did. He had bad conduct," Mudd said.

Watch the clip below via CNN.