American journalist Evan Gershkovich, formerly of The Wall Street Journal, has been charged with espionage in Russia.

Gershkovich is accused of collecting information for the CIA about Uralvagonzavod, a Russian tank factory involved in the war in Ukraine.

The US government denies the allegations, asserting that journalism is not a crime and demanding Gershkovich's immediate release.

Gershkovich was arrested in March 2023 and is perceived as a bargaining chip for Russia to exert pressure on the US.

His trial will occur in Yekaterinburg, limiting observer access and raising concerns about press freedom.

The situation serves as a warning to foreign correspondents in Russia and underscores the tensions between the US and Russia.

President Biden has condemned Gershkovich's detention as illegal, and discussions of a potential prisoner swap between Russia and the US are ongoing.

If convicted, Gershkovich faces up to 20 years in prison and is currently held in pre-trial detention at Moscow's Lefortovo Prison.

The Wall Street Journal is advocating for his immediate release, stressing the importance of fair treatment and vigilant monitoring of the situation.