WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, March 30, 2023, U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5), a member of the House Intelligence Committee, released the following statement regarding the Russian detainment of American citizen, Wall Street Journal reporter, and New Jersey native Evan Gershkovich:

“Not since the Cold War has a foreign journalist been charged with espionage in Russia, but ruthless dictator Vladimir Putin has continued his egregious acts of aggression — this time targeting American journalist and New Jersey native Evan Gershkovich. Putin must be held accountable for his horrific war of aggression against Ukraine and for the unjust detainment of an American citizen.

Putin and his cronies will do everything in their power to suppress free speech and the press in an attempt to cover up their atrocious and inhumane war crimes. There cannot be proper accountability without freedom of the press.

I will do everything I can to help secure Mr. Gershkovich’s freedom. I have requested an immediate briefing from the House Intelligence Committee and will continue to be in communication with the State Department. 

We must stand united against Russia’s vicious attack on democracy and freedom of the press.”

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