Former President Donald Trump has vowed to secure the release of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich from Russian detention if he is re-elected in November.
Gershkovich, 32, was recently sentenced to 16 years in a Russian maximum security penal colony on charges of espionage, which many international observers and Gershkovich’s employer have condemned as baseless.
In a bold statement on Truth Social, Trump criticized the current administration’s handling of the situation, claiming that President Joe Biden would not be able to secure Gershkovich’s release without significant concessions. “Biden will NEVER GET HIM OUT, unless he pays a ‘king’s ransom,'” Trump declared. He added, “I will get him out FOR NO COMPENSATION immediately following our victory on November 5th, and it will be my great honor to do so.”
Trump emphasized that this would be a Day 1 priority for him, signaling a robust approach to dealing with international detainments and asserting his capabilities in negotiation. His post ended with a direct appeal to voters and a jab at Gershkovich’s employers: “Vote for TRUMP, and The Wall Street Journal should STOP BEING STUPID!!!”
This statement comes amidst Gershkovich’s 16-month imprisonment in Russia’s Lefortovo Prison, known for housing a mix of serial killers and political prisoners. The case has drawn widespread criticism, with many world leaders echoing the sentiment that Gershkovich is a pawn in a larger geopolitical dispute between Russia and the United States over its support of Ukraine.
President Biden has also spoken out about the case, affirming his commitment to press freedom and declaring, “Journalism is not a crime. We will continue to stand strong for press freedom in Russia and worldwide, and stand against all those who seek to attack the press or target journalists.”
Trump’s promise to release Gershkovich without compensation if elected offers a stark contrast in diplomatic strategies and underscores his confidence in his ability to negotiate with foreign leaders.
