Closed-Door Trial of US Journalist Evan Gershkovich in Russia Begins

Summary:
The closed-door espionage trial of US journalist Evan Gerskovich has commenced in Russia. Arrested on March 29, 2023, Gerskovich, a reporter for The Wall Street Journal, is accused of spying for the CIA by gathering sensitive military information on a Russian arms supplier, allegations denied by both his publication and the US government. The trial, held in Yekaterinburg, has been postponed to August 13 after several hours of proceedings. Gerskovich, who has been imprisoned for 16 months, appeared in court with a shaven head and faintly smiled at journalists. Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated a potential prisoner exchange with the US. Gerskovich’s case is part of a broader pattern of Western journalists facing prosecution in Russia, especially since the onset of the war in Ukraine.