MOSCOW: Russian authorities have charged US journalist Evan Gershkovich with espionage, according to reports from Russian news agencies.
A correspondent for the Wall Street Journal, Gershkovich, was arrested in Moscow, prompting widespread concern from media outlets, human rights groups, and officials in Washington.
The Federal Security Service (FSB) charged Gershkovich with espionage “in the interests of his country,” citing a law enforcement source.
However, Gershkovich has strongly denied the allegations, stating that he was engaged in journalistic activities in Russia.
The arrest is viewed as a significant escalation of Moscow’s crackdown on the media. The Wall Street Journal, one of the most respected publications in the United States, has “vehemently denied the allegations” against its “trusted and dedicated reporter.”
However, the case has been classified as secret, limiting the amount of information available.
Gershkovich’s arrest comes amid heightened tensions between Russia and the United States over the Ukraine offensive.
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US President Joe Biden has called for Gershkovich’s release, and the White House has labeled the accusations against him as “ridiculous.”
However, Russia has said that it is “pointless” to try to pressure Moscow over the case.
The incident has raised concerns about press freedom in Russia, with several media outlets and human rights groups calling for Gershkovich’s release.
The International Federation of Journalists has condemned the arrest, stating that it is a “flagrant violation of press freedom.”
The case is likely to further strain relations between the two countries as tensions over the Ukraine crisis continue to escalate.
