Evan Gershkovich, 31, was escorted out of Lefortovo court in Moscow, flanked by authorities - after he visited the country s fourth-largest city to write up about the feared Wagner group.
In addition to escalting Moscow’s diplomatic conflict with the United States, the case could further isolate Russia by frightening away more of the few foreign journalists still working there.
Popular Russian actress Liya Akhedzhakova, known for her open criticism of Kremlin policies including its ongoing full-scale invasion of Ukraine, has left the prominent Moscow theater Sovremennik (Contemporary) amid pressure from authorities and pro-government activists.
China must play a part in pressing for a "just peace" in Ukraine and its role in the conflict will be vital in shaping relations with the European Union, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.
The newspaper denied the allegations and demanded the immediate release of "trusted and dedicated reporter" Evan Gershkovich. There was no immediate response from Washington.