The U.S. Ambassador to Russia, Lynne Tracy, recently met with Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter who has been unlawfully detained in Russia for over a year. Gershkovich was arrested by Russia’s Federal Security Service during a reporting trip in Yekaterinburg and has been charged with suspicion of espionage.
Despite the prolonged wait for the start of his trial, the U.S. Embassy in Moscow reported that Gershkovich remains in good spirits, encouraged by the ongoing support he receives. The United States government has denounced the charges against Gershkovich as fabricated and has actively advocated for his release.
Evan Gershkovich (Credits: The Moscow Times)
According to reports by the Wall Street Journal, senior Russian government officials have acknowledged engaging in confidential discussions with the U.S. government regarding prisoner exchanges, potentially including Gershkovich.
The newspaper emphasized the increasing urgency for Gershkovich’s release and expressed gratitude for Ambassador Tracy’s continued efforts to monitor his well-being.
The U.S. Ambassador to Russia, Lynne Tracy (Credits: The Hill)
In a remarkable gesture of solidarity, the Wall Street Journal recently left the front page of its print edition blank to draw attention to the anniversary of Gershkovich’s detention, highlighting the ongoing concern for his welfare and the importance of securing his freedom.
