Russian journalist in secret trial

Alsu Kurmasheva, a Russian-American journalist working for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, was sentenced to 6½ years in prison by a Russian court after a secret trial, accused of spreading false information about the military. Her conviction occurred in Kazan, coinciding with the sentencing of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, which the U.S. has labeled politically motivated. Kurmasheva, who holds dual citizenship and was detained in October 2023, has faced charges related to her reporting and alleged failure to register as a foreign agent. RFE/RL's president condemned the trial as a 'mockery of justice' and demanded her immediate release. The U.S. government has also called for her freedom, noting the lack of consular access she has received. The case highlights ongoing tensions regarding press freedom in Russia, particularly concerning reporting on the Ukraine war.