U.S. Reporter Detained in Russia on Espionage Allegation

Key points

• Russia’s Federal Security Service detained U.S. citizen and reporter Evan Gershkovich in Yekaterinburg, alleging he sought classified information.
• The FSB said Gershkovich was collecting information about a Russian military-industrial enterprise on U.S. instructions.
• His employer rejected the allegations and called for his immediate release, while U.S. officials sought consular access.
• Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the United States was deeply concerned and had contacted Gershkovich’s family and Russian authorities.
• Espionage in Russia carries a potential prison sentence of up to 20 years, according to the report.
• Gershkovich had lived in Moscow for six years, covered Russia and neighboring countries, and held accreditation from Russia’s foreign ministry.