Russia may be willing to discuss a potential prisoner swap with the US involving Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who is currently on trial on espionage charges. According to Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, Russia has a working channel with the US security agencies that could facilitate such a swap. However, Ryabkov emphasized that any negotiations would only take place after a trial, which could last for several months.
Gershkovich, 31, has been held in Moscow’s Lefortovo prison since his arrest on March 29. Russian authorities have accused him of trying to obtain classified information about a Russian arms factory, but his employer and the US government deny any involvement in spying. If convicted, Gershkovich could face up to 20 years in prison.
The US has pressed Russia to grant consular access to Gershkovich, but Russian officials have said they will provide it in due time and in line with consular practices. The Wall Street Journal has launched a campaign to support Gershkovich, asking the public to submit letters to him via its website and offering a way for readers to show their support.
Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov. (Via Sergei Ryabkov./Twitter)
Gershkovich’s employer has demanded his release, and US officials have condemned his detention, with President Joe Biden speaking to his parents earlier this week. The US government has also designated Gershkovich as “wrongfully detained”, which means that a particular State Department office will take the lead on seeking his release.
The case has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of Gershkovich, who has had little contact with the outside world since his arrest. His employer has described him as being in good spirits and health, and has received updates on one of his favorite football teams, Arsenal. Meanwhile, Paul Whelan, a Michigan corporate security executive who has been imprisoned in Russia since 2018 on espionage charges, remains behind bars.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry has repeatedly urged the US to use a dedicated channel for talks on a potential prisoner swap, saying such private communications are the only appropriate means for resolution. In the past, Russia has insisted on completing the judicial process before considering exchanges, which could mean that Gershkovich’s trial could last for several months before any potential swap is considered.
