US Journalist Gershkovich Sentenced in Russian Espionage Case

Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was convicted of espionage and sentenced to 16 years in prison by a Russian court. The US and his employer have dismissed the charges as fabricated. The case may pave the way for a potential prisoner swap between Moscow and Washington.

Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was sentenced to 16 years in a maximum-security prison by a Russian court on espionage charges. The conviction, widely disputed by the US and his employer, is seen as politically motivated.

The secretive trial concluded swiftly, amid speculation of a possible prisoner exchange between the US and Russia. Gershkovich, who appeared gaunt in a dark T-shirt, remained composed during the proceedings and the delivery of the verdict.

President Biden denounced the conviction, asserting that Gershkovich was targeted because he is an American journalist. Senior figures at The Wall Street Journal criticized the trial as a sham, emphasizing their commitment to securing his release.

(With inputs from agencies.)