Statement from Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on Evan Gershkovich

We are deeply concerned by the troubling reports that Evan Gershkovich, an American citizen, has been detained in Russia.

Last night, White House and State Department Officials spoke with Mr. Gershkovich’s employer, the Wall Street Journal. The Administration has also been in contact with his family. Furthermore, the State Department has been in direct touch with the Russian government on this matter, including actively working to secure consular access to Mr. Gershkovich.

The targeting of American citizens by the Russian government is unacceptable. We condemn the detention of Mr. Gershkovich in the strongest terms.

We also condemn the Russian government’s continued targeting and repression of journalists and freedom of the press.

I want to strongly reiterate that Americans should heed the U.S. government’s warning to not travel to Russia. U.S. citizens residing or traveling in Russia should depart immediately, as the State Department continues to advise.

###