An American soldier was detained in Russia last week on charges of “criminal misconduct,” the US Army said on Monday.
The soldier, who was not identified by name, was detained in Vladivostok, Russia, on May 2, 2024, according to US Army spokeswoman Cynthia Smith. Russia notified the US State Department, which is “providing appropriate consular support to the soldier in Russia,” and the Army notified his family.
“Given the sensitivity of this matter, we are unable to provide additional details at this time,” Smith added.
When asked earlier about reports of a soldier’s detention in Russia, US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said: “We are aware of this case.”
NBC News reported that the soldier traveled to Russia on his own and was not on official business. CNN reported that the soldier, a staff sergeant, was arrested on suspicion of theft and was currently being held in pre-trial detention.
Several other Americans are held in Russia, including Evan Gershkovich, a reporter for the Wall Street Journal who was detained on espionage charges more than a year ago. He, his employer, and the US government all reject the charges against Gershkovich.
The detention of the US soldier comes amid deep tensions between Washington and Moscow over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The US has imposed sanctions on Russia and has provided military aid to Ukraine. Russia has accused the US of “escalating” the conflict and has warned of “consequences” if the US continues to support Ukraine.
It is unclear what charges the US soldier is facing or what the evidence against him is. It is also unclear how long he will be detained. The US government is likely to continue to press for the soldier’s release and to provide him with consular support.
