Evan Gershkovich's appeal in Russia is unsuccessful, and he will remain imprisoned until June.
Over a year, Gershkovich has remained in Russian custody.
Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter imprisoned in Russia for over a year on unproven espionage charges, has lost another appeal to be released from pretrial detention and will remain incarcerated until at least June.
The Russian court recently prolonged the detention of a 32-year-old American journalist, who was arrested in March in Yekaterinburg on espionage charges, until June 30. The US government and Wall Street Journal have condemned the allegations as baseless, and the State Department has classified him as wrongfully detained. This marks the first time an American reporter has been arrested in Russia on such charges since 1986, and his plight has garnered global attention.
Gershkovich was observed appearing relaxed and amused during court proceedings on Tuesday. He could be seen smiling, laughing, and giving a "thumbs-up" when asked how he was doing while talking to attorneys from inside his glass box.
He maintains a positive attitude in his letters to friends and family, as reported by them.
Gershkovich's pretrial detention has been repeatedly extended since his arrest, but experts and people familiar with the case believe that a high-profile prisoner swap may be the best hope for his release, as well as that of fellow American Paul Whelan.
In a press conference last year, Russian President Vladimir Putin hinted at a possible "solution" and revealed ongoing talks with the U.S. about potential deals to release the two.
On March 29, Gershkovich completed one year in Russian prisons, a significant milestone for his loved ones who eagerly await his release.
Polina Ivanova, a close friend of Evan, shared with Planet Chronicle Digital that it is horrifying and devastating that Evan has spent 365 days doing the same routine, schedule, and waking up to the same gray walls, with no vibrant or meaningful experiences in his life.
Gershkovich's imprisonment has been criticized by human rights observers and media watchdogs worldwide, who have urged for his immediate release. President Biden brought up the case of Gershkovich and Whelan in his State of the Union address last month.
Biden stated that we will work tirelessly to rescue Evan and Paul, who are unjustly detained by Russians and others globally.
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