US Ambassador Visits Detained Wall Street Journal Reporter in Russian Prison

Evan Gershkovich, Accused of Espionage, Faces Potential 20-Year Sentence Amid Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts for His Release

US Ambassador to Russia, Lynne Tracy, visited detained Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich in Moscow's Lefortovo prison. Gershkovich was arrested on espionage charges in March 2023 while on a reporting trip in Yekaterinburg, Russia.
Gershkovich, his employer, and the US government vehemently deny the spying charges, marking the first time such charges have been leveled against a foreign journalist since the Soviet era.
Gershkovich is set to remain in custody until at least January 30, pending a trial that could result in a 20-year prison sentence if found guilty.
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed a desire for Moscow and Washington to reach a 'solution' for Gershkovich's release, but noted that talks are not straightforward.
The US Embassy in Moscow continues to call for Gershkovich's immediate release, stating that he remains resilient and is grateful for the support of friends, family, and supporters.