American journalist Evan Gershkovich (REAR), arrested on espionage charges, stands in the defendant’s cage during a hearing to consider his long-term detention, Moscow City Court, June 22, 2023 Appeal.
Natalia Kolesnikova | AFP | Getty Images
U.S. Ambassador to Russia Lynn Tracy American journalist Evan Gershkovich On Monday, it was the second visit by a Biden administration official since the Wall Street Journal reporter was arrested in March.
U.S. consular officials, including Tracy, Gershkovic was last seen on April 17, about two weeks after Russian government officials arrested him. A Moscow court ruled last month that Gershkovich must remain in prison until Aug. 30.
“Ambassador Tracy reported that Mr. Gershkovich is in good health and, despite his ailing condition, remains strong,” a State Department spokesperson said. “U.S. Embassy officials will continue to report Mr. Gershkovich and his family with all appropriate support, and we hope that the Russian authorities will continue to provide consular access.”
The spokesman called on Russia to release Gershkovich and reiterated that the allegations were baseless.
“We also call for the immediate release of Paul Whelan,” the spokesman added. “Mr. Whelan was wrongfully detained in Russia for over four years. Both should now go home to their families.”
In a statement reported by Russian state media, Russia’s FSB said Gershkovich, who is being held in Moscow’s Lefortovo prison, was first charged on March 30 with “espionage for the benefit of the U.S. government.” And was detained. Russian authorities have not provided any evidence to support the allegations.
“It remains to be seen,” Roger Carstens, the president’s special envoy for hostage affairs, said in an interview with NBC News’ Tom Llamas last week. Recent events in Russia between the Wagner mercenary group and Russian President Vladimir Putin A case affecting Gershkovich.
“If there’s one thing that’s surprised me about the industry in the 3.5 years I’ve been in this job, it’s that no matter how nervous it is, the other side is always willing to talk to us. Sometimes we get stuck.” Discord with Russia, but We’re still able to get Trevor Reed and Brittney Greener released,” Carstens said during a panel discussion at the Aspen Festival of Ideas. “So my thinking is that even Wagner Group might give The system brings some confusion and ambiguity, and I think we’ll still find a way to have that conversation and bring Evan home. “
Carstens said he believed Gerszkovich’s case could “progress in the way we’ve seen in the case” britney greener, trevor reed and Paul Whelan“.
Last year, the Biden administration secured the release of Reade and Greiner from Russia.