An American soldier from the US Army stationed in South Korea has been apprehended in Russia, as confirmed by US military officials.
The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that the allegations against the soldier are unrelated to politics or espionage but pertain to a domestic criminal matter.
According to reports, a US media partner of the BBC, Staff Sgt. Gordon Black is accused of theft involving a woman.
The incident occurred during his personal time, not while on official duty, when he was arrested on May 2 in Vladivostok, Russia’s Far East.
Russian media sources suggest that Sgt. Black was visiting a woman with whom he was romantically involved.
John Kirby, a spokesman for the National Security Council, acknowledged the case and related matters involving Russia but could not disclose further details during a White House briefing on Monday.
The US Army has issued a statement confirming that the soldier is facing charges of criminal misconduct.
“The Army has informed his family, and the US Department of State is providing appropriate consular support to the Soldier in Russia,” said spokeswoman Cynthia Smith.
Report notes that the soldier was in the process of relocating from South Korea to Fort Cavazos in Texas.
