The clandestine trial of Evan Gershkovich is set to commence on June 26, 2024, in Yekaterinburg, Siberia. Gershkovich, an American journalist, was apprehended in March 2023 during a reporting mission, marking the first instance of an American journalist being incarcerated by the Russian government since the cessation of the Cold War.

Gershkovich faces allegations of espionage, though Russian authorities have yet to present any substantiating evidence. Both the White House and The Wall Street Journal have emphatically refuted claims that Gershkovich engaged in any espionage activities. This case has drawn significant international attention, raising concerns about the misuse of legal frameworks for political leverage.

“We’re trying to keep Evan in the public consciousness,” said Sam Silverman ’14, a close friend and classmate of Gershkovich, during an interview with The Portland Press Herald. “We want people to know about this situation where an American citizen has essentially been taken hostage by a foreign government and used as a political pawn,” he continued, highlighting the gravity and global implications of Gershkovich’s detention.

The Portland Press Herald also featured insights from Laura Henry, a Professor of Government and an expert in contemporary Russian politics and Eastern European affairs. “It’s somewhat of a shock to find ourselves back at this moment,” Henry stated, reflecting on the deterioration of US-Russia diplomatic relations since Moscow’s comprehensive invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. She emphasized, “Evan has always been a really intrepid and impressive reporter in Russia,” underscoring Gershkovich’s professional dedication and the broader ramifications of his case in the realm of international journalism and diplomacy.

For those seeking to support the campaign to secure Evan Gershkovich’s release, additional information and resources are available at freegershkovich.com.

For a comprehensive overview of media coverage related to Evan Gershkovich since his arrest, please visit Gershkovich in the media.