The Kremlin has disclosed that Russia and the United States have engaged in discussions regarding the possibility of a prisoner exchange involving Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal journalist who is currently detained. Dmitry Peskov, spokesperson for the Kremlin, revealed that the two countries have been in contact about a potential swap, which would involve the 31-year-old American journalist and Vladimir Dunaev, a Russian citizen facing charges in the U.S. related to cybercrimes. Peskov emphasized the need for secrecy in these discussions, stating that they should be carried out without public attention.
These statements by Peskov follow U.S. Ambassador to Russia, Lynne Tracy’s meeting with Gershkovich at Lefortovo prison in Moscow, where she confirmed his good health and resilience despite his circumstances. The State Department spokesperson emphasized the ongoing support that will be provided to Gershkovich and his family by U.S. Embassy officials, while also calling for continued consular access from Russian authorities.
Gershkovich was initially arrested on charges of espionage in late March, with both the Biden administration and the Wall Street Journal rejecting these allegations and categorizing his detention as wrongful. However, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov previously stated that Russia would not engage in discussions regarding a prisoner exchange until a verdict is delivered on Gershkovich’s espionage charges, which could result in a prison sentence of up to 20 years if he is convicted.
In conclusion, both Russia and the U.S. have explored the possibility of a prisoner swap involving Evan Gershkovich and Vladimir Dunaev. However, the Kremlin is emphasizing the need for confidentiality, while the U.S. is continuing to advocate for consular access and support for Gershkovich. The situation remains unresolved as Gershkovich’s espionage trial has yet to conclude.
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