In the spring of 2023, Evan Gershkovich, a correspondent for The Wall Street Journal in Russia, had plans to join his close friends in Berlin for a week of exploration and camaraderie. Envisioning days spent wandering the cobble-lined streets of Neukölln and evenings filled with lively discussions over beers in hipster cafes, Evan anticipated the start of what should have been an exciting chapter in his life. However, his plans were abruptly shattered when Russian authorities detained him in Yekaterinburg on March 29, 2023, accusing him of espionage—a charge vehemently denied by Evan, his employer, and the U.S. government.
For the next 12 months, Evan found himself confined to a cell in Lefortovo prison in eastern Moscow, isolated from the world he once knew. Despite being a dynamic and curious 32-year-old, he was deprived of the experiences he had anticipated: traveling across Europe and the U.S., spending time with loved ones, and pursuing his passion for journalism in Russia.
During his incarceration, Evan’s friends and family continued with their lives, celebrating weddings and engagements, experiencing personal milestones, and indulging in leisure activities. Meanwhile, Evan languished in his cell, his only respite coming from weekly meetings with his Russian lawyers and occasional court appearances where his pretrial detention was extended.
Despite the bleakness of his situation, Evan found solace in letters from loved ones, engaging in chess matches with his father by mail, and immersing himself in Russian literature and history. Yet, the absence of everyday joys—such as watching Arsenal games or discussing the latest episodes of popular TV shows—served as a constant reminder of the life he had been forcibly separated from.
Before his detention, Evan had been embracing a new chapter in London, where he had hoped to immerse himself in sports, particularly soccer, and reconnect with friends. However, his plans were dashed, leaving his friends scattered across the globe, their lives moving forward while Evan remained suspended in time.
The void left by Evan’s absence was palpable during cherished gatherings and traditions, such as New Year’s celebrations and weddings, where his presence was sorely missed. Despite their continued hopes for his release, Evan’s loved ones were forced to confront the reality of his situation—a year lost to incarceration and uncertainty.
As life marches on for those outside the prison walls, Evan’s friends and family cling to the hope that one day soon, he will be reunited with them, able to reclaim the stolen moments and experiences that were denied to him during his year of detention. Until then, they hold onto memories of happier times and remain steadfast in their support for Evan as he endures his unimaginable ordeal.
