News conference on Russia’s detention of Wall Street Journal reporter, July 13

The National Press Club has scheduled a news conference Thursday, July 13, examining the first 100 days of the detention by Russia of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich.

Gershkovich was detained by Russian security services March 29 while reporting in Russia and has been held in a Moscow prison ever since. His detention recently was extended at least until Aug. 30.

The event, to be held at 11 a.m. in the Ballroom, is open to Club members and credentialed press. Registration required.

The briefing will include a discussion of actions The Wall Street Journal and the U.S. government are taking to seek Gershkovich’s return; perspectives of Russia’s criminalization of journalism and what Gershkovich’s case tells about press freedom worldwide; and steps the National Press Club is taking to support the family and the Journal.

Gershkovich’s sister, Danielle, in her first public media appearance since her brother’s detention, will talk about their family and how his detention has impacted it. The family lives in Philadelphia.

Other speakers will include:

• Paul Beckett, Washington bureau chief, The Wall Street Journal
• Jason Conti, general counsel, Dow Jones & Co.
• Eileen O’Reilly, president of the National Press Club
• Jason Rezaian, global opinions columnist, The Washington Post