Evan Gershkovich's speedy Russian trial fuels prisoner exchange speculation
The trial was over very quickly - after only three hearings, writes Sky's Ivor Bennett, fuelling speculation that a prisoner exchange involving the Wall Street Journal reporter could be afoot.
Friday 19 July 2024 15:49, UK
The verdict in Evan Gershkovich's trial was no surprise, given the conviction rate of Russian courts - 99% of defendants are found guilty here.
But that doesn't make this any less significant. It is a major moment that underlines just how low relations have sunk between Russia and the US.
The last time an American reporter was accused of espionage here was nearly four decades ago, back in 1986.
It was the height of the Cold War.
The journalist in question was Nicholas Daniloff, who was released without charge in a prisoner swap after 13 days.
By contrast, Mr Gershkovich was convicted and sentenced to 16 years in prison.
And do not forget: he's already spent almost 16 months behind bars in pre-trial detention.
Standing in the customary defendant's glass cage, known as the aquarium, with his head shaved, the Wall Street Journal reporter did not look surprised as the judge delivered his barely audible monologue.
At one point, he offered a wry smile, and appeared to shrug his shoulders. It was the look of resignation - he was at the mercy of Russia's legal system.
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We do not know what was said during the trial because it was behind closed doors, held in secret. No media were allowed in. Not even family.
So we don't know what evidence was produced against him, if indeed there was any.
But we do know that the trial was over very quickly, after only three hearings.
That has fuelled speculation that a prisoner exchange involving Mr Gershkovich could be afoot.
Because when it comes to a swap, Russia normally likes to conclude any legal proceedings first.
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So is that the reason for the trial's speedy conclusion? It was a question put to Vladimir Putin's spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, earlier on Friday.
"I'm leaving that question without an answer," he said. Make of that what you will.
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The White House accuses the Kremlin of stockpiling Americans like Gershkovich to use as bargain chips.
If true, Russia may be getting ready to cash one in.