Accused US Soldier Detained in Russia Partially Admits Fault in Court
American serviceman Gordon Black, apprehended in Russia for alleged Theft, confessed to being "somewhat accountable" in a Vladivostok court, as reported by Interfax news agency. Black addressed the court, admitting to a role in the theft, but reaffirming his intention was not malicious. He vehemently denied any threats to kill his Russian romantic interest, Alexandra Wachtchuk.
Russian law enforcement alleges Black assaulted Wachtchuk and filched 10,000 Rubles (equivalent to 105 Euros) from her. Wachtchuk asserts that during a heated dispute in their shared residence, Black intimidated her.
In his court statement on Monday, Black countered that Wachtchuk was excessively intoxicated during the dispute and struck him. He claimed he leaned over her to pacify her and grabbed her around the throat. The stolen money, he declared, was intended to cover the cost of a hotel room.
Black was detained in May. If found guilty, he faces up to five years in prison. The 34-year-old had disclosed that he served as a soldier in South Korea, venturing to Russia alone to be with Wachtchuk.
Several other American nationals are currently imprisoned in Russia, such as journalist Evan Gershkovich and former soldier Paul Whelan, who are charged with espionage.
Read also:
- Amidst the ongoing trial, Russian authorities have expressed concern over potential death threats made against the US soldier, Gordon Black, by anonymous sources, sparking further international attention.
- Despite denying any death threats towards his Russian romantic interest, Alexandra Wachtchuk, the media has been flooded with speculations, stirring tension between the two nations.
- In the midst of this controversy, the US State Department has issued a statement, expressing concern over Black's situation and advising US citizens to exercise caution when traveling to Russia due to the alleged theft incident and related accusations.
