US Soldier Detained in Russia on Criminal Charges

A U.S. soldier, identified as Staff Sgt Gordon Black, 34, was detained by Russian authorities in Vladivostok, near the borders with China and North Korea. According to reports, Black was stationed in South Korea but traveled to Russia instead of returning home to the United States. The exact circumstances surrounding his departure from South Korea are unclear, with some sources suggesting he may be considered absent without leave (AWOL). Russian authorities notified the U.S. government and the Army informed Black's family of his detention.