The US calls on all Americans, including journalists, to leave Russia

US President Joe Biden’s administration has called on its citizens, including journalists, to leave the territory of Russia. John Kirby, a spokesman for the US National Security Council, told CNN.

US officials have described Russia’s espionage allegations against The Wall Street journalist Evan Gershkovich, who was arrested in Russia, as “ridiculous” and “absolutely ludicrous”.

According to Kirby, the United States has not yet gained consular access to Gershkovich, but continues to work on it.

CNN reminded that earlier US citizens were warned against traveling to Russia. On March 31, a spokesperson for the National Security Council noted that these recommendations apply even to journalists working in Russia.

“This is not the time for Americans to be in Russia. If you’re in Russia now — whether it’s on business or leisure, whatever kind of travel — you need to leave now. This is not a good place for you to be in Russia, even if you are a working journalist. Russia is a hostile environment for American citizens right now. And it’s time to go if you’re there,” Kirby said.

As previously reported, the heads of more than 30 news agencies around the world signed a letter to Russian Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov demanding the release of Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal correspondent imprisoned by Russia.

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