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Evan Gershkovich's Closed-Door Espionage Trial Begins in Russia, Faces 20 Years

Jun 26, 2024, 01:29 PM

Evan Gershkovich, a 32-year-old Wall Street Journal reporter, has begun his closed-door trial in Yekaterinburg, Russia, on charges of espionage. Gershkovich, who was arrested by Russia's FSB in March 2023, faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. The trial, which excludes reporters, friends, family, and US embassy staff, has been widely criticized as a sham. Both Gershkovich and his employer vehemently deny the charges, with the US embassy stating that Russia has provided no evidence to support the accusations. The trial is seen as highly politicized, with many calling for Gershkovich's immediate release. Emma Tucker, editor-in-chief of the Wall Street Journal, highlighted that Gershkovich has been detained for 15 months. The next hearing is scheduled for August 13.