American journalist Evan Gershkovich was formally charged with spying in Russia on Friday, as per Russian news companies.
“FSB investigators charged Gershkovich with espionage in the interests of his country. He categorically denied all accusations and stated that he was engaged in journalistic activities in Russia,” Russian state-run company TASS stated citing a legislation enforcement supply.
The arrest of Wall Street Journal correspondent Gershkovich prompted an outcry from media retailers and rights teams, in addition to authorities officers in Washington.
Gershkovich’s arrest is seen as a critical escalation of Moscow’s crackdown on the media. His publication, one of the prestigious within the United States, “vehemently denies the allegations” towards its “trusted and dedicated reporter”.
The case has been categorized as secret, limiting the quantity of knowledge out there. His arrest additionally comes as Moscow’s relations with Washington has been severely downgraded due to the Ukraine offensive.
Washington has lengthy accused Moscow of arbitrarily arresting Americans with a view to safe the discharge of detained Russians.
U.S. President Joe Biden referred to as for Gershkovich’s launch on Friday, and the White House termed the accusations towards him as “ridiculous.”
Russia on Thursday stated it was “pointless” to attempt to pressurize Moscow over the case.
Source: www.dailysabah.com
