Gleb Karakulov, a former captain and engineer in Putin's elite security unit, has defected and labeled the Russian leader a "war criminal" for his actions in Ukraine. Karakulov said he had witnessed the "inhumanity and cruelty" of the Russian military in Ukraine, and that he could no longer remain silent. His defection and criticism of Putin is a rare event and is likely to be seen as a major blow to the Russian president's reputation.
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NPR has denounced Twitter's decision to label them as "state-affiliated media", arguing that it is inaccurate and inappropriate. Twitter CEO Elon Musk appeared to endorse the designation, and the labeling system has been seen as an attempt to limit the reach of certain news outlets. NPR President and CEO John Lansing has said that the non-profit media organization will continue to provide unbiased coverage of news and events.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken has expressed grave concern over the detention of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich in Russia on espionage charges, and has called for his immediate release. The Journal and Dow Jones have denied the unsubstantiated allegations and the U.S. government is closely monitoring the situation, with the safety and security of American citizens around the world a top priority.
Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was arrested in Russia last week and accused of spying. On Tuesday, lawyers for Gershkovich were able to visit him and reported that he was in good health. The Wall Street Journal and the international community have called for his immediate release and for the charges against him to be dropped.
Finland has officially become the 31st member of NATO, a move seen as a major shift in Europe's security landscape and a strategic blow to Russia. The decision to join the alliance comes after months of tension between Russia and its neighbors, and signals a shift away from Finland's traditional neutrality. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg welcomed Finland's membership, saying it would "strengthen our partnership and contribute to stability in the wider region."
WNBA star Brittney Griner and her wife Cherelle have expressed their concern and support for American journalist Evan Gershkovich, who has been detained in Russia on espionage charges. Griner, who was held in Russia for most of last year, urged the Biden administration to “use every tool possible” to secure Gershkovich's release. The Wall Street Journal, for which Gershkovich works, has denied the charges and called for his immediate release, and the Biden administration has said it is “deeply concerned” and working to secure his release.
On Wednesday, Russian authorities arrested Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich in Yekaterinburg. U.S. Ambassador to Moscow John Sullivan has warned that Gershkovich is likely to face a sham, closed trial on espionage charges and endure tough treatment. This arrest is the latest in a series of incidents that have raised tensions between Russia and the West, and the international community is urged to pay attention to the case and take action.
Turkey's Parliament has voted unanimously to ratify Finland's application to join NATO, ending months of delays and paving the way for Finland to become the 30th member of the Western military alliance. The decision follows Hungary's parliament endorsing Helsinki's accession earlier this week, and is in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine a year ago. Finnish President Sauli Niinisto said the vote marks a “historic moment” for Finland, and the country is now ready to join NATO.