WSJ reporter in Russia formally charged with espionage
American Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich has now been formally charged with espionage, according to Russian state media. The move by Russia comes as a campaign to free him swells, with Senate leaders issuing a bipartisan demand to free him.
The formal charging shows Russia is pressing ahead with putting the journalist on trial, despite a growing outcry that has seen dozens of global media outlets demand his release.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell on Friday issued an unusual bipartisan statement calling for Gershkovich’s immediate release, saying "journalism is not a crime."
They also demanded Russia allow consular access to Gershkovich, who U.S. diplomats have still not been allowed to visit 10 days since his arrest, in violation of international rules.
The U.S.’s National Press Club has also now awarded Gershkovich its highest honor for press freedom, praising him for his brave commitment to reporting on Russia despite the risks.
-ABC News' Patrick Reevell