Evan Gershkovich

Wall Street Journal Reporter's Espionage Trial Resumes in Russia

Trial Resumes Amidst Allegations of Unfairness

Reporter Accused of Espionage

Moscow, Russia — The espionage trial of American journalist Evan Gershkovich resumed in a Russian court on Thursday after being brought forward at the request of the defense. Gershkovich, a reporter for The Wall Street Journal, is accused of espionage and faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

Gershkovich, who was accredited by Russia's Foreign Ministry, was detained in March 2023 while on a reporting trip to the country. His arrest and subsequent trial have been widely condemned by Western governments and press freedom groups, who have accused Russia of using the case to suppress independent journalism.

Employer Denounces "Sham Trial"

The Wall Street Journal has denounced the trial as a "sham" and has vowed to continue to advocate for Gershkovich's release. "This bogus accusation of espionage will inevitably lead to a bogus conviction," said the newspaper's editor, Matt Murray, in a statement.

Gershkovich, 32, has pleaded not guilty to the charges and has maintained his innocence throughout the trial. His trial is expected to continue for several more weeks.

The case has raised concerns about the deteriorating state of press freedom in Russia, where independent journalists have faced increasing pressure and harassment in recent years.