Release of Americans from Russian Captivity

Four Americans and one permanent U.S. resident were freed from Russian captivity in a major prisoner exchange involving several countries. The release followed months of diplomatic efforts amid strained relations between the U.S. and Russia over the war in Ukraine.

Release of Evan Gershkovich and Paul Whelan from Russian Jail

Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, former U.S. marine Paul Whelan, and Russian-American journalist Alsu Kurmasheva have been released from jail in Russia as part of a major inmate swap involving around 20 to 30 prisoners. The U.S. denies the espionage charges against Gershkovich and Whelan.

U.S. Citizen Sentenced to 13 Years in Russian Prison for Drug Trafficking

U.S. citizen Michael Travis Leake has been sentenced to 13 years in a Russian prison on drug trafficking charges. The case involves accusations of organizing a drug trafficking business involving young people.

Imprisoned Journalist Evan Gershkovich's Trial in Russia

New York Times reporter Michael Schwirtz discusses imprisoned journalist Evan Gershkovich's trial in Russia on espionage charges. Gershkovich remains positive despite facing the trial.

News Highlights from Up First Newsletter

The Supreme Court rejected a lawsuit challenging FDA rules on abortion medication, the Pope is at the G7 summit in Italy, American journalist Evan Gershkovich faces espionage charges in Russia, and NPR celebrates Father's Day with advice from fathers. NPR also shares recommendations on movies, TV, books, music, games, sports, and a weekly news quiz.

Journalist Evan Gershkovich's Espionage Charges in Russia

U.S. journalist Evan Gershkovich is jailed in Russia on espionage charges and will stand trial in Yekaterinburg. The accusations are related to gathering secret information about a military facility. The U.S. government and Gershkovich's employer deny the charges.

Julian Assange's Potential Extradition to the U.S.

The U.S. provided assurances to the British High Court that could allow Julian Assange to be extradited to the U.S. to face espionage charges. Assange's wife, Stella, called the prosecution an 'attack on truth.'

Julian Assange's potential prosecution

President Biden is considering dropping the U.S. prosecution of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange, who has been indicted on espionage charges. Assange's wife and supporters argue he is a journalist protected by the First Amendment who exposed U.S. military wrongdoing.

US President considering dropping prosecution against Julian Assange

US President Joe Biden is considering dropping the prosecution against Wikileaks founder Julian Assange, an Australian citizen indicted on 17 espionage charges and one charge of computer misuse for publishing classified US documents. Australia has called on the US to drop the prosecution, arguing a disconnect in treatment compared to Chelsea Manning. Assange's supporters claim he is a journalist protected by the First Amendment who exposed US military wrongdoing in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Jailed U.S. reporter's friends and family speak out after a year in Russian prison

American journalist Evan Gershkovich has been detained in a Russian prison for a year on espionage charges without evidence. Family and friends speak out as they await news of his trial and potential release. The Biden administration is actively trying to secure his release, but Russia has rejected proposals for a swap. Gershkovich remains in good spirits despite harsh conditions in jail.

Detention of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich in Russia

Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich has been detained by Russian security forces on espionage charges for nearly a year. His detention was extended by three more months by a Russian court. Efforts to gain his release have been unsuccessful so far.

Julian Assange's Extradition Case

Julian Assange will not be extradited to the U.S. immediately as a British court ruled in his favor. The court has asked for specific assurances from the U.S. regarding his rights before making a final decision. Assange faces charges related to the publication of classified U.S. intelligence files in 2010 and could potentially face a long prison sentence if convicted.

Julian Assange extradition case

Julian Assange cannot be immediately extradited to the United States on espionage charges, pending further assurances from U.S. authorities. The legal saga continues with a new appeal granted until May 20.

Arrest of Wall Street Journal Reporter in Russia on Espionage Charges

Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich remains in jail on espionage charges in Russia until at least late June. The U.S. government has declared him wrongfully detained, and his employer denies the allegations.