Former President Trump recently expressed uncertainty regarding the potential release of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich from a Russian prison before the November election.
In an interview with Time magazine, Trump was asked about Gershkovich, who has been detained in Russia for over a year on espionage charges that both the journalist and the US government deny.
Donald J. Trump (Credits: NPR)
Trump stated that he wasn’t sure if Gershkovich would be released during President Biden’s term, citing his disagreement with Biden’s handling of relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump claimed to have a good relationship with Putin, but acknowledged that Gershkovich’s release was uncertain under the current administration.
If elected, Trump vowed to work towards Gershkovich’s release, expressing surprise that it hadn’t happened yet. When asked why he hadn’t publicly called for Gershkovich’s release earlier, Trump attributed it to his busy schedule but promised to do so.
Evan Gershkovich (Credits: Dow Jones)
Trump drew a distinction between himself and Biden, implying that he would be more effective in securing Gershkovich’s release. He also reiterated his confidence in Putin’s willingness to release the journalist.
Trump’s comments on Putin have sparked controversy in the past, including when he praised the Russian leader for his actions in Ukraine. Critics have accused Trump of being overly sympathetic towards Putin and Russia.
