Kremlin Silent on Potential Prisoner Swap for WSJ Reporter

The Kremlin has not commented on the possibility of a prisoner exchange involving Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich. Gershkovich was sentenced to 16 years for espionage, a charge he denies. Talks between Russia and the U.S. on the matter are to remain confidential.

The Kremlin declined to comment on Tuesday on the possibility of a prisoner swap involving Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich.

Last month, Russia acknowledged that contacts had taken place with the United States over a possible prisoner exchange for Gershkovich, but emphasized that discussions should remain private.

A Russian court convicted Gershkovich of espionage on July 19, sentencing him to 16 years in prison. He denies the charges, and the Wall Street Journal called the sentence "a disgraceful sham conviction."