CNN
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An American has been detained in Moscow, according to a telegram statement from the Moscow Court of General Jurisdiction.
The man was taken into custody on Saturday and “the Khamovniki District Court in Moscow took precautionary measures against American citizens,” the paper said.
A court statement said the man was a “former Airborne and musician” and was “accused of engaging in the drug business by attracting young people.”
“Precautionary measures in the form of detention were taken,” the statement added.
A statement said the man will remain in custody until August 6, 2023.
The State Department said on Saturday it was aware of reports of the detention of a U.S. citizen, but declined to comment further, citing privacy concerns.
“We are aware of reports of recent arrests of Americans in Moscow,” a State Department spokesman said.
“If a U.S. national is detained abroad, the department will seek consular access as soon as possible and endeavor to provide all appropriate consular assistance.”
This is breaking news. It will continue.
