Moscow, Jan 30 (Reuters) - Russian state investigators announced on Thursday that a British man captured fighting on the Ukrainian side in Russia's Kursk region would be facing terrorism and mercenary charges, potentially leading to a lengthy prison sentence.
In November, Moscow disclosed the detainment of James Anderson, identifying him as a former British soldier. British Foreign Minister David Lammy stated that he was aware of the situation and assured that London would provide assistance.
The Russian Investigative Committee released a video on Thursday showing Anderson, handcuffed and in prison attire with a shaven head, being ushered into a room for interrogation and confirming his identity.
The Committee stated that Anderson would be charged with terrorism and mercenary activities for his involvement in an armed conflict as a mercenary on Russian territory in exchange for financial gain. The statement did not mention Anderson's plea to the charges, some of which carry penalties of up to 20 years in prison.
Last August, Ukrainian forces seized a portion of land in Russia's Kursk region in a surprise incursion. Russia has since recaptured about two-thirds of the territory and is currently contending for the remainder.
The Investigative Committee, tasked with investigating serious crimes, revealed that Anderson had illegally crossed the Russian border from Ukraine in November. While armed with automatic weapons and explosives, he allegedly instilled fear in the local populace, caused extensive damage to property, disrupted local governance, and committed unspecified criminal acts against civilians.
According to investigators, they have amassed "undeniable evidence" of Anderson's culpability, and his case will be adjudicated by a military court.