The Kremlin said on Monday (17) that talks are underway with the United States about a possible prisoner exchange that would involve Wall Street Journal journalist Evan Gershkovich, who is imprisoned in Russia.
As reported by the Reuters agency, Dmitry Peskov, spokesman for the Russian regime, made comments in this regard when referring to previous statements by dictator Vladimir Putin, who during a meeting with editors of international news agencies in Saint Petersburg, mentioned that contacts between Russia and the US were taking place over the issue.
“I want to remind you again of the president’s conversation with the heads of intelligence agencies in St. Petersburg – he confirmed that there are such contacts,” Peskov said.
Peskov emphasized the need to keep these contacts “away from the media spotlight”, arguing that such negotiations should be carried out in “complete silence”, without announcements or public statements.
“They [os contatos] continue, but must continue to be conducted in complete silence… Therefore, no announcement, statement or information on this matter can be provided,” the spokesperson said.
Asked why Gershkovich’s trial for alleged “espionage” would be closed to the public, Peskov stated that he “could not comment” on judicial decisions, as they are determined by the court.
Evan Gershkovich, 32, was arrested by the Federal Security Service (FSB) on March 29, 2023, in the city of Yekaterinburg, accused of espionage, a crime that in Russia can result in up to 20 years in prison.
Gershkovich, who is the first American journalist detained in Russia on espionage charges since the Cold War, has repeatedly denied the allegations. The reporter’s plight has become a focal point in already tense relations between Moscow and Washington.
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