Emma Tucker, editor of The Wall Street Journal, has accused Russia of stockpiling Americans in its jails as potential bargaining chips. She specifically mentioned the case of Evan Gershkovich, a reporter for the Journal who was detained in Russia a year ago.

Tucker believes that Gershkovich's arrest was politically motivated and that Russia intends to use him as leverage in future negotiations. She described the situation as "hostage diplomacy" and emphasized that Gershkovich is being held as a bargaining chip.

Tucker's comments come amid reports that the US government has attempted to secure Gershkovich's release, along with that of another American detainee, Paul Whelan. However, Russia has reportedly rejected these offers.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has hinted at the possibility of exchanging Gershkovich for Vadim Krasikov, a former Russian spy serving a life sentence in Germany for murder. This scenario is similar to previous prisoner exchanges involving Americans detained in Russia, such as Brittney Griner and Trevor Reed.

Despite these efforts, several Americans remain in Russian custody, including Whelan. The exact number of detainees is unknown, and the US continues to work towards their release.