The US has officially classified journalist Evan Gershkovich as “wrongfully detained” in Russia and has demanded his immediate release.

The US has declared that journalist Evan Gershkovich is being “wrongfully detained” in Russia and demanded his immediate release.

He was arrested in Yekaterinburg while working for the Wall Street Journal and accused of espionage, a charge the WSJ denies.

Moscow has not allowed US officials to see him, which violates international law.

The case has been elevated to the office of the Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs, which will bring more attention to the matter.

Reporters Without Borders said Gershkovich was covering the Wagner mercenary group.