One year ago, on a Friday, Evan Gershkovich, a foreign correspondent for The Wall Street Journal on assignment in Russia, was detained by Russian authorities and charged with spying for the US government. This marked the first time an American reporter had been detained on espionage charges in Russia since the Cold War.
Evan’s family received a chilling phone call from the editor-in-chief of The Wall Street Journal informing them of his detention. Despite efforts to secure his release, Evan has been held in Moscow’s high-security Lefortovo prison for over a year without a trial date set.
The Biden administration’s special envoy for hostage affairs has been working tirelessly to secure Evan’s release, along with another detained American accused of espionage. However, complications and lack of high-profile Russians in US custody make it challenging.
Evan spends his time in prison playing chess with his father, reading books recommended by friends, and exchanging letters with family and pen pals around the world. His parents, who immigrated from the Soviet Union in the 1970s, are dedicated to keeping the pressure on authorities for his release.
The arrest has had broader implications for Russia coverage, leading to heightened risks for journalists in the region. Despite this, Evan’s family continues to wait for his release and remains optimistic about the future despite the challenges they face. Their unwavering hope and optimism drive them forward as they navigate the complexities of securing Evan’s release.
