Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was found guilty of espionage and sentenced to 16 years in a maximum-security prison, according to a publication reporter at the courtroom. The verdict came after two closed sessions held by the Sverdlovsk Regional Court before hearing closing arguments on Friday.
The judge stated that Gershkovich was “guilty of committing the crime” and announced a sentence of 16 years in a maximum-security prison. Prosecutors had earlier requested an 18-year prison term for the accused journalist, who did not plead guilty to the charges against him.
The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) alleges that Gershkovich collected information constituting a state secret about a Russian defense industry enterprise on orders from the United States. The Wall Street Journal reporter was detained in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg in March last year.
This case has drawn international attention, with human rights and press freedom organizations condemning Russia’s actions as an attempt to stifle independent journalism. Gershkovich’s conviction and sentence have been met with widespread criticism from the global media community, which views it as a significant setback for press freedom in Russia.
The Russian government has defended its actions, stating that Gershkovich was rightfully charged and tried for espionage due to his activities within the country. However, critics argue that this case is part of a broader crackdown on dissent and an attempt to silence foreign journalists reporting on Russia’s actions both domestically and abroad.
As Gershkovich begins his 16-year sentence in a maximum-security prison, the international community will continue to monitor this case closely, with many calling for his immediate release and advocating for greater protection for journalists working in hostile environments.