During a joint press briefing with Finnish President Sauli Niinisto, President Biden reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to securing the release of Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter currently detained in Russia. Gershkovich, who has been imprisoned for over 100 days on what the U.S. deems unfounded charges, is among several Americans wrongfully held in the country.
A reporter from the Wall Street Journal raised the question of Gershkovich’s situation and inquired about the administration’s seriousness regarding a prisoner exchange. President Biden responded with determination, stating, “”I’m serious about a prisoner exchange. I’m serious about doing all we can to free Americans who are being illegally held in Russia or anywhere else for that matter. That process is underway.””
Evan Gershkovich, aged 31, had been stationed in Russia for around six years before his arrest in late March. The U.S. Ambassador to Russia, Lynne Tracy, was finally able to meet with Gershkovich on July 5 after months of limited access.
The U.S. embassy in Russia provided an update on Gershkovich’s well-being, assuring that he remains in good health and displays resilience despite the challenging circumstances. The embassy expressed hope that the Russian authorities would grant regular consular access.
While the Kremlin has acknowledged the possibility of a prisoner exchange, they have refrained from divulging further details. Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin’s spokesperson, emphasized the need for confidentiality in these discussions, stating, “”They must be carried out and continue in complete silence.””
It is worth noting that this is not the first instance of a prisoner exchange between the United States and Russia. In 2022, the Biden administration successfully secured the release of WNBA star Brittney Griner in exchange for Viktor Bout, a notorious arms dealer.
The determination displayed by the Biden administration to secure the release of Evan Gershkovich and other unlawfully detained Americans in Russia is commendable. Their commitment to protecting the rights and ensuring the safety of American citizens held captive abroad remains a top priority.
The recent meeting between Ambassador Tracy and Gershkovich provides a glimmer of hope, but it is essential to continue diplomatic efforts and exert pressure on the Russian authorities for a swift resolution to this unjust detention.
Source Fox News