A Russian court has handed down a 16-year prison sentence to American journalist Evan Gershkovich, who worked for the Wall Street Journal. Gershkovich was found guilty of espionage after three days of closed-door hearings in a case that has raised concerns about press freedom in Russia.
The charges against Gershkovich were based on allegations that he was passing classified information to a foreign intelligence agency. The specifics of the allegations have not been made public, but Gershkovich has denied any wrongdoing.
Many have criticized the trial as a sham, with Gershkovich’s defense team claiming that the evidence presented was fabricated and that he did not receive a fair trial. The US government has also condemned the verdict, calling it a violation of human rights.
The case is just the latest in a series of crackdowns on journalists and dissent in Russia. President Vladimir Putin has been accused of using the legal system to silence critics and stifle free speech.
Gershkovich’s sentencing has sparked outrage among press freedom advocates and the international community. Many are calling for his release and for an end to the suppression of independent journalism in Russia.
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Video “Russian court jails US reporter Evan Gershkovich for 16 years for ‘espionage’ | DW News” was uploaded on 07/19/2024 to Youtube Channel DW News