Calls for Release of WSJ Reporter Increase Amidst Tensions with Russia

More than 30 news organizations, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, and the BBC, have signed a letter demanding the release of imprisoned Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich from Russia. Gershkovich was arrested on suspicion of espionage, the first time a US journalist has been detained on accusations by Moscow of spying since the Cold War. The Committee to Protect Journalists spearheaded the letter, which calls for Gershkovich's immediate and unconditional release, stating that his arrest is a significant escalation in Russia's anti-press actions and sends the message that journalism within Russia is criminalized.