The United States Embassy remains deeply concerned about the arrest of journalist Ernest Vardanyan and the procedures under which he is being held by the Transnistrian authorities, Info-Prim Neo reports, quoting a press release from the Embassy. The Embassy strongly urges that international standards of fundamental human and legal rights be strictly observed in this case. “We are disturbed by reports that neither Mr. Vardanyan nor his lawyer was permitted to attend a recent pre-trial detention hearing, which would appear to contravene such rights. We share the strong concerns of the EU and other heads of mission in Moldova regarding the denial of Mr. Vardanyan’s legal rights and urge that due process be respected.” the press release says. “We are also troubled – as is the European Union and others – about a broader problem of ongoing pressure and intimidation against representatives of civil society. These actions, too, are contrary to international standards of human rights.” Ernest Vardanyan was arrested on April 7 on suspicion that he spied for Moldova. He faces up to 20 years in jail. The warrant for his arrest was extended for two months.