American Soldier Denies Threatening to Kill Girlfriend in Russian Court

U.S. soldier Gordon Black entered a plea of not guilty in a Russian court on Monday regarding accusations of threatening his girlfriend with death. However, he did admit to being “partially” guilty of stealing from her, as reported by Russian state media.

According to the RIA news agency, the soldier, using an interpreter, confessed to “partially” committing theft by taking 10,000 roubles ($113) from his girlfriend Alexandra Vashchuk’s purse, claiming there was no malicious intent.

Regarding the other charge of allegedly grabbing Ms. Vashchuk by the neck during an argument, causing her to fear for her life, Mr. Black denies the accusation.

Ms. Vashchuk testified that Mr. Black needs psychiatric help rather than severe punishment, and she is not willing to reconcile with him due to lack of compensation. TASS quoted her saying that Mr. Black had displayed aggression towards her on multiple occasions.

The couple met in South Korea, where Mr. Black was stationed. The Pentagon confirmed that he violated army regulations by traveling to Russia without authorization, passing through China.

Mr. Black has a wife and child in Texas. His wife Megan previously stated to Reuters that he and Ms. Vashchuk had a tumultuous relationship. She recounted an incident during a video call where they witnessed Ms. Vashchuk brandishing a knife at Mr. Black, leaving him injured.

Mr. Black’s mother, Melody Jones, told Reuters that despite their turbulent relationship, he had followed his girlfriend to Russia.

Regarding the theft allegation, TASS quoted Mr. Black in court claiming he had transferred over $500 to Ms. Vashchuk through an acquaintance before his arrest, which exceeded the amount he was accused of stealing.

TASS also reported Ms. Vashchuk stating that he had contributed significantly to the cost of their shared apartment while staying in Russia. Mr. Black mentioned transferring about 300,000 roubles to her before his arrival in Vladivostok from South Korea.

Both sides will present their arguments in court during the next session on June 19, where Mr. Black will have an opportunity to make a final statement.

($1 = 88.50 roubles)