American soldier Gordon Black, who was arrested in Russia on suspicion of theft, has reportedly admitted guilt and is cooperating with the investigation, according to Russian state news agencies. The accused is said to have confessed to the crime and is actively participating in the inquiry process with the assistance of an interpreter.
Staff Sgt. Gordon Black was taken into custody in Vladivostok on May 2, where he faces allegations of secret theft and causing significant damage to property, as stated by the Pervomaisky District Court of Vladivostok. Black is currently being held in pre-trial detention while authorities ensure he has access to legal representation and other necessary resources, as confirmed by the chairman of the regional Public Monitoring Commission.
Reports suggest that Black, who was previously stationed in South Korea, traveled to Vladivostok to visit a Russian woman with whom he had a romantic relationship. Despite his arrest coinciding with heightened tensions between the US and Russia due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson emphasized that the case is not linked to political motives or espionage.
Upon learning of the detention of a US citizen in Russia, the US State Department reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of American citizens abroad. The department acknowledged that several other Americans are currently detained in Russia, including individuals like Wall Street Journal reporter and former Marine Paul Whelan, who have been declared as wrongfully detained by US authorities.
