The Journal.

Russia Tries a WSJ Reporter in a Secret Court

Jul 17, 2024

Matthew Luxmoore, a WSJ reporter covering the trial of Evan Gershkovich, shares gripping insights into this unprecedented legal battle in Russia. He reveals the secrecy surrounding the court proceedings, which even restricts defense lawyers from speaking out. Luxmoore discusses the harsh realities faced by imprisoned journalists, including dubious judicial practices that echo Stalin's era. The conversation also touches on geopolitical implications, exploring how this case could potentially serve as a pawn in U.S.-Russia negotiations over hostages.

17:16

Episode guests

Matthew Luxmore

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Quick takeaways

Defendants in secret trials in Russia face restricted access to evidence and public information, raising concerns about receiving a fair trial.

Defense lawyers in closed-door trials in Russia are heavily restricted in discussing the case publicly and accessing evidence, creating significant disadvantages compared to prosecutors.

Deep dives

Evan Gershkovich's Secret Trial in Russia

Evan Gershkovich, a colleague held in Russia, faces espionage charges in a closed-door trial, severely limiting the defense team's abilities. With only specific individuals allowed in the courtroom, including FSB agents, the trial lacks transparency. Past espionage cases in Russia rarely result in acquittals, raising concerns about Evan receiving a fair trial amidst restricted access to evidence and public information.

Unfair Trial in Russia

00:30

Negotiating Prisoner Exchange

00:22

Intro

2min

The Harsh Reality of a Journalist's Trial in Russia

2min

Secrets of Justice: The Russian Closed Trial System

6min

Geopolitical Maneuvering: The Case of the U.S. Journalist in Russia

2min

The Intricacies of International Negotiations Over Hostages

2min

WSJ reporter Evan Gershkovich has been held in Russia for more than a year on an espionage accusation that he, the U.S. government and The Wall Street Journal vehemently deny. Gershkovich will appear in court Thursday for another hearing. WSJ’s Matthew Luxmoore explores what we know about the secret trial and why even the Gershkovich’s defense lawyers are restricted from publicly discussing it.

Further Reading:

- The Shadowy Judicial System That Controls the Fate of WSJ’s Evan Gershkovich

Further Listening:

- A WSJ Reporter Arrested in Russia

- Russian Court Upholds WSJ Reporter’s Detention

- Two Parents on a Crusade to Free Their Son

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