In a resounding display of bipartisan unity, the US House of Representatives has passed a resolution urging Russia to immediately release Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich. Gershkovich has been held in Russian custody since March on espionage charges that the US government and the WSJ have vehemently denounced as baseless.
The House resolution, passed with a 422-0 vote, underscores the growing international concern over Gershkovich's detention. The resolution not only calls for his immediate release but also demands that Russia grant him unrestricted consular access while he remains in custody. WSJ Editor in Chief Emma Tucker and Publisher Almar Latour praised the bipartisan support from Congress, emphasizing the importance of Gershkovich's case for press freedom and free societies worldwide.
Gershkovich, known for his insightful reporting from within Russia, was arrested in Yekaterinburg shortly after publishing an article about the country's struggling economy. President Biden has personally called for Gershkovich's release, and the US State Department has officially designated him as “wrongfully detained.”
Polina Ivanova, a Financial Times reporter and close friend of Gershkovich, highlighted the resolution’s significance and Gershkovich’s resilience while detained. She noted that he remains focused and determined, spending his time reading and responding to letters of support.
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Majority Whip Tom Emmer both condemned Gershkovich's detention, emphasizing the need for a strong response from the US. McCarthy stressed the importance of defending press freedom, while Emmer pointed out the blatant attempt by Russia to use Gershkovich as a political pawn due to his legal presence in the country.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken also criticized the Kremlin’s continued repression of independent voices and its disinformation campaign. He reiterated the US government's commitment to supporting Gershkovich and his family.
The House resolution also calls for the release of Paul Whelan, another American detained in Russia on espionage charges that he and the US government deny. David Whelan, Paul's brother, sees parallels between the two cases and believes Russia is using detained Americans as bargaining chips in future negotiations.
