Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov indicated that consular access matters concerning American journalist Evan Gershkovich were discussed in accordance with requests from the United States. The exchanges were reported by TASS and reflect ongoing diplomatic engagement between Moscow and Washington on the case.
Ryabkov stressed that access arrangements for Gershkovich are continually being worked out, with progress tied to the specific requests submitted by the American side. This statement underscores the iterative nature of negotiations over consular rights and the treatment of the detained journalist.
Earlier, a U.S. diplomatic mission in Moscow noted the visit by the U.S. Ambassador and other officials as part of efforts to secure consular access and to monitor the situation surrounding Gershkovich. The American side has consistently sought timely, transparent access to the journalist for appropriate consular services and to address his welfare concerns.
John Kirby, who held the role of White House Strategic Communications Coordinator, publicly acknowledged the hope that the Russian side would continue to permit consular access to Gershkovich. The sentiment expressed aligned with prior calls for cooperation to ensure due process and humane treatment while the case remains unresolved.
Gershkovich was detained in Yekaterinburg on March 30. Russian authorities, through the Federal Security Service, have stated that the actions involve alleged activities linked to a Russian military-industrial enterprise, and the case has been framed as espionage. The situation has drawn ongoing attention from international media and diplomatic observers who monitor legal procedures, access to counsel, and the overall handling of those detained in such cases. It remains a focal point of dialogue between the Russian authorities and the United States, with consular access serving as a key element of international norms governing the treatment of detained foreign nationals and the rights of accredited representatives to provide assistance.