A Moscow court has confirmed that Evan Gershkovich, a U.S. journalist for the Wall Street Journal, will remain in jail until at least March 30, 2024, dismissing an appeal by his legal team.
Gershkovich was apprehended in Yekaterinburg, Russia, on espionage charges during a reporting trip last March.
Charges he, his employer, and the U.S. government vehemently deny.
"Gershkovich will remain in custody until March 30, 2024," announced the Moscow courts service following the appeal hearing.
International Concerns
The U.S. has strongly criticized Russia for Gershkovich's arrest and continued detention.
"The charges against Evan are baseless. The Russian government has locked Evan up simply for reporting news,", reported U.S. Ambassador to Russia Lynne Tracy, who was present at the hearing.
This incident marks the first detention of a Western journalist on espionage charges in Russia since the Soviet Union's dissolution.
Potential for Exchange
Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed interest in a potential prisoner swap involving Gershkovich and a Russian detained in Germany.
The U.S. has labeled Gershkovich as "wrongfully detained," accusing Russia of using American citizens as leverage in diplomatic negotiations.
