Accredited foreign journalists can continue to work in Russia, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Friday, following the arrest of Evan Gershkovich, a reporter for the Wall Street Journal.
His comments came in response to a question regarding a Thursday article from the Editorial Board of the Wall Street Journal, which says: “The Biden Administration will have to consider diplomatic and political escalation."
“Expelling Russia’s ambassador to the U.S., as well as all Russian journalists working here, would be the minimum to expect. The U.S. government’s first duty is to protect its citizens, and too many governments now believe they can arrest and imprison Americans with impunity,” it said.
Peskov was asked “how likely” it is that Russian journalists and Russia’s ambassador will be expelled from the United States.
“All foreign journalists who have valid accreditation here can and continue their journalistic activities in our country. They don't face any restrictions and work fine,” Peskov replied.
“In this case, we are talking about espionage activities under the guise of journalistic activities. Since this journalist was caught red-handed, this situation is obvious,” he added.
The WSJ has categorically rejected those allegations, saying in a statement Thursday that it “vehemently denies the allegations from the FSB and seeks the immediate release of our trusted and dedicated reporter.”
Peskov continued: “In this regard, to demand the expulsion of all Russian journalists ... Well, the newspaper can do it, but this should not be the case. There is simply no reason for this. If there are any violations of the law, going beyond the scope of activities provided for by law, yes. But it would be absurd and wrong to restrict the rights of conscientious journalists.”
He once again reiterated he was unable to expand his “red-handed” accusation, saying: “We do not have detailed information, it is classified. The FSB is handling this.”
The White House has called the Russian espionage charge "ridiculous."