US Journalist Evan Gershkovich Espionage Trial in Russia

Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich has been convicted of espionage in Russia and sentenced to 16 years in prison, a move rejected by his employer, the US government, and President Joe Biden. The trial, widely seen as politically motivated, may pave the way for a potential prisoner swap between Moscow and Washington. Gershkovich, the first Western journalist charged with spying in Russia since the Soviet era, faces up to 20 years in a penal colony if found guilty in the highly politicized legal system. The US and global media outlets have condemned the trial, demanding his release, while Russian officials suggest discussions for a prisoner exchange are ongoing, with a guilty verdict expected imminently.