Evan Gershkovich Details 16-Month Russian Imprisonment in New Memoir

Read how Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich reflects on his 16-month detention in Russia as a political pawn in his new memoir.

Editorial Desk

October 14, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — London, United Kingdom — Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich has opened up about his harrowing 16-month detention in Russia on false espionage charges.

Born on October 26, 1991, the American journalist graduated from Bowdoin College with a degree in philosophy and English before moving to Russia in 2016.

After contributing to various publications, Gershkovich joined The Wall Street Journal in 2022 to cover the region before being detained by Russian authorities.

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In a recent interview, Gershkovich detailed his ordeal and shared the specific moment that nearly broke his spirit during captivity.

The American reporter explained that he ultimately realized he was functioning as a pawn in a greater game when FSB agents refrained from interrogating or torturing him.

Gershkovich recounts his entire experience and wrongful imprisonment in his newly released memoir, titled This Cursed Beautiful Land: A Russian American Story.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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