Russian Court Sentences U.S. Reporter Evan Gershkovich Amidst Political Tension

Evan Gershkovich, a U.S. reporter, has been sentenced by a Russian court, highlighting President Vladimir Putin's fear of factual journalism. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock condemned the act, labeling it as politically motivated and part of Putin's propaganda. Journalism, she insists, is not a crime.

The sentencing of U.S. reporter Evan Gershkovich by a Russian court underscores President Vladimir Putin's apprehension towards factual journalism, stated German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock on Friday.

Baerbock asserted on X that 'Journalism is not a crime and the truth cannot be locked away,' describing the verdict as 'politically motivated and part of Putin's war propaganda.'

This move has been met with international criticism, questioning the integrity of press freedom under Putin's regime.

(With inputs from agencies.)