Russian authorities have detained a U.S. Army soldier in Vladivostok on charges of criminal misconduct, creating further tension in the already strained relationship between Moscow and Washington, according to statements from the State and Defense Departments on Monday.
The soldier, identified as Staff Sgt. Gordon Black, 34, was on his way back to Fort Cavazos in Texas from South Korea when he was taken into custody on May 2. Russia informed the State Department of his detention, following international agreements between the two countries.
Cynthia O. Smith, an Army spokeswoman, confirmed that the soldier’s family has been notified, and the U.S. Department of State is offering consular support in Russia.
The U.S. government has issued a warning against travel to Russia, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by Americans in the country. The arrest of Sgt. Black was first reported by NBC News.
This incident adds to a series of detentions of Americans in Russia in recent years, with many held on what U.S. officials believe are unjust charges. These cases have strained relations between the two countries, already at odds over various issues, including Russia’s actions in Ukraine and space militarization.
The detention of Evan Gershkovich, a journalist for The Wall Street Journal, and the imprisonment of Paul Whelan, a former Marine, further highlight the challenges faced by Americans in Russia. The release of Brittney Griner in a prisoner exchange underscores the complexities of U.S.-Russia relations.
In another case, a dual citizen of Russia and the U.S. was arrested on charges of treason for supporting Ukraine. This highlights the ongoing tensions between the two countries.
Efforts are underway to secure the return of Pvt. Travis T. King, who was detained in North Korea after crossing the border from South Korea without authorization. Diplomatic negotiations are ongoing to resolve this situation.
2024-05-06 21:37:23
Post from www.nytimes.com