United States Agency for Global Media

Washington, D.C. — According to the Associated Press (AP), American journalist Alsu Kurmasheva of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) has been tried and convicted in secret in a Russian court on baseless charges that have grown progressively more serious since her imprisonment more than nine months ago. The report says she has been sentenced to six-and-a-half years in prison.

“Russia’s secret trial and unjust sentencing of American journalist Alsu Kurmasheva prolongs a nightmare for an innocent family,” said USAGM CEO Amanda Bennett. “Alsu’s daughters and husband haven’t seen her in more than a year. It’s a sad day for press freedom – and it’s time for Alsu to be reunited with her family.”

RFE/RL President & CEO Stephen Capus said, “This secret trial and conviction make a mockery of justice — the only just outcome is for Alsu to be immediately released from prison by her Russian captors. It’s beyond time for this American citizen, our dear colleague, to be reunited with her loving family.”

Learn more about Alsu Kurmasheva’s case here.