The Russian security service detained 31-year-old Gershkovich on March 30 in the city of Yekaterinburg on suspicion of collecting alleged state secrets about the military-industrial complex. Gershkovich “categorically” denies the allegation. He has appealed against his arrest. The court will consider that on April 18.
The American newspaper also denies that the reporter was spying and has demanded his immediate release. The Washington government has called the espionage allegation ridiculous and has urged Russia to allow consular assistance to Gershkovich. Moscow has promised that a solution will be found. Gershkovich is the first American journalist to be arrested in Russia for espionage since the fall of the Soviet Union.