Evan Gershkovich

Evan Gershkovich is an American journalist known for his sharp international reporting. Born in the United States to Soviet Jewish émigrés, Gershkovich grew up with a deep appreciation for both Russian culture and the democratic values of his homeland. This dual heritage would later shape his career and the unique perspective he brought to covering complex global issues.

After graduating from Bowdoin College, Gershkovich began his journalism career working for various respected news outlets, including The New York Times and Agence France-Presse. His fluency in Russian and his cultural insight quickly distinguished him in the field, particularly in covering Russian affairs during a time of increasing geopolitical tension. Eventually, he joined The Wall Street Journal as a correspondent based in Moscow, where he reported on a wide range of topics, from the intricacies of Kremlin politics to the daily lives of Russian citizens.

Gershkovich built a reputation for integrity, depth, and courage. He reported with nuance and humanity, even when the subjects were politically sensitive or dangerous. His work often illuminated the tensions within Russian society and between Russia and the West, offering a window into a world that many in the West struggled to understand.

In March 2023, while on assignment in Russia, Gershkovich was arrested by Russian authorities and accused of espionage—a charge widely condemned by journalists, human rights organizations, and governments around the world as baseless and politically motivated. His arrest marked the first time since the Cold War that an American journalist had been detained in Russia on such charges, sparking an international outcry and calls for his immediate release.

In July of 2024, Gershkovich was sentenced to 16 years in prison after being convicted in an espionage trial. He was released on August 1, 2024, as part of a prisoner exchange.

Gershkovich remains a symbol of journalistic resilience and the importance of press freedom. His case has become a rallying point for advocates of free speech and the protection of journalists working in hostile environments. Throughout his career, and even amid personal adversity, Evan Gershkovich has stood for truth, transparency, and the vital role of journalism in holding power to account.