Background

Evan Gershkovich: Former Wall Street Journal Reporter Freed in Prisoner Swap

Background

Evan Gershkovich is a former Wall Street Journal reporter who was arrested in Belarus in 2021 and charged with espionage. He was held in prison for over a year before being released in a prisoner exchange with Russia in December 2022.

Charges and Arrest

In July 2021, Gershkovich was arrested by Belarusian authorities while on assignment in the country. He was accused of spying for the United States and attempting to destabilize Belarus. The charges against him were widely criticized by journalists and human rights groups, who argued that he was being targeted for his work as a reporter.

Prison Exchange

After more than a year in prison, Gershkovich was released as part of a prisoner exchange between Russia and the United States. The exchange also included the release of Paul Whelan, a former U.S. Marine who had been held in Russia on espionage charges since 2018.

Return to the U.S.

Gershkovich returned to the United States in December 2022 and was greeted by his family and friends. He has since resumed his work as a reporter, writing about the war in Ukraine and other international affairs topics. His release was a significant victory for press freedom and a reminder of the dangers that journalists face around the world.