WASHINGTON, Aug. 1, 2024
/PRNewswire/ -- Following is a statement by Emily Wilkins, president of the National Press
Club on the release of Radio Free Europe journalist Alsu Kurmasheva
from detention in Russia.
"Our joy at Alsu's release today is tempered by our anger
that she was taken in the first place. Alsu was guilty of no crime
and was held in deplorable conditions and separated from her family
in a cruel and heartless manner.
"We congratulate the Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty Team which
worked hard for Alsu's release and for all those who supported
her case.
"Alsu's family: Pavel, Bibi and Miriam, were her best champions
and advocates. Through broken hearts they fought for her with skill
and passion. We honor them and hope they are soon reunited with
Alsu -- the heart of their family.
"We are grateful to the U.S. Government for their ability
to broker this historic swap. President Biden has shown strong
leadership here and deserves significant credit.
"Throughout the campaign, the Press Club coordinated with the
family and the Radio Free Europe Team in Washington to lend support and experience when
possible. We led a coalition of journalism organizations calling on
the government to declare that her detention was wrongful. We look
forward to honoring Alsu with The President's Award at our
annual Awards Dinner on August 28.
Today we celebrate her freedom!"
Founded in 1908, the National Press Club is the world's leading
professional organization for journalists. With 3,000 members
representing nearly every major news organization, the Club is a
leading voice for press freedom in the U.S. and worldwide.
Contact: Bill McCarren,
wmccarren@press.org for the National Press Club
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SOURCE National Press Club