House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul passionately addressed the House Floor yesterday, advocating for the immediate release of Evan Gershkovich, a U.S. citizen and respected journalist who has been wrongfully detained by the Russian Federation since March 2023. 

As a Wall Street Journal reporter and the son of Soviet-born Jewish exiles, Evan's arrest on false charges of espionage is an alarming example of the corrupt Putin regime's suppression of press freedom. Chairman McCaul emphasized that there is no evidence to support these accusations, highlighting Evan's innocence and his crucial role in reporting on Russian news. 

The chairman firmly denounced Putin's attempt to silence not only Evan but also other journalists, creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation. He assured Evan's family, friends, and colleagues that the fight for his release will persist relentlessly. 

Additionally, Chairman McCaul underscored the broader issue of political detentions, referencing the recent arrest of another American citizen in Russia. 

The bipartisan resolution presented condemns the illegal imprisonment by the Putin regime and urges the Biden administration to prioritize the return of all wrongfully detained American citizens. It sends a resolute message that the United States, irrespective of political affiliations, will not tolerate the corrupt regime's manipulation and mistreatment of U.S. citizens. 

The chairman concluded by reaffirming America's unwavering support for Evan and all Americans unjustly detained abroad, vowing to tirelessly work towards their safe return.