American residents risk serving seven years in a Russian correctional facility
The Russian legal system has proposed a seven-year stint in a harsh labor camp for a 72-year-old American, accused of serving as a soldier on Ukraine's side during their conflict against Russian invasion. If convicted, the individual will serve time in a high-security penal colony, as stated by Interfax News Agency. The court will take into account his age and confession, reportedly made after the Russian invasion began in February 2022.
Reports argue that the defendant agreed to a contract with Ukraine's military and received remuneration of at least $1,000. His alleged duties included weapons training, receiving a personal firearm, and serving as a mercenary in the Ukrainian military until his capture by Russian forces in April 2022.
The U.S. Embassy in Moscow confirmed its knowledge of the detainment of an American citizen but could not provide additional information due to privacy concerns. Sentences for mercenaries in Russia can range from 7 to 15 years in prison.
Recently, arrests of U.S. citizens have become more frequent in Russia. Concerns arise that Moscow secretly aims to imprison U.S. citizens as bargaining chips in negotiations for Russian convicts held abroad. In August, the U.S. and Russia concluded a significant prisoner exchange, the largest post-Soviet era, involving 24 individuals and requiring efforts from Germany and other European countries. Despite these efforts, several U.S. citizens continue to be detained in Russia.
The attack on Ukraine has resulted in unprecedented legal actions against foreign nationals, such as the American accused of serving as a soldier. This individual's actions, including agreeing to a contract with Ukraine's military and serving as a mercenary, are seen as a direct response to the conflict between Ukraine and Russian invasion.
