American Soldier Detained in Russia on Suspicion of Theft

American Soldier Detained in Russia on Suspicion of Theft

An American soldier, identified as Gordon Black, has been detained in Russia on suspicion of theft and is currently being held in pre-trial detention, according to two US officials. The soldier, a staff sergeant stationed in South Korea, traveled to Russia voluntarily and was arrested by Russian authorities on May 2.

The US Army has confirmed the soldier’s detention but has not disclosed further details. The soldier’s family has been notified, and the US Department of State is providing consular support in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.

The arrest comes at a time of heightened tension between the US and Russia, with ongoing conflicts such as the war in Ukraine. Several Americans are currently being held in Russia, including individuals declared wrongfully detained by the US State Department.

The soldier was not AWOL at the time of his trip to Russia and was scheduled to move to Ft. Cavazos in Texas in the future. The US Embassy in Moscow is seeking consular access to the soldier, and the State Department has reiterated its priority of ensuring the safety and security of US citizens overseas.

The US has previously warned American citizens against traveling to Russia due to the risks involved. This incident follows a similar case where a soldier stationed in South Korea crossed into North Korea and was detained before being released after intense diplomatic efforts.

The situation is still developing, and this story will be updated as more information becomes available.