Armenian Mercenary Arrested at Russian Airport: Reports

A citizen of Armenia has been arrested at Domodedovo Airport in Russia on allegations of serving as a mercenary in conflicts in Ukraine.

According to the press service of the Russian Investigative Committee, the individual fought alongside the armed forces of Ukraine in the Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics, as well as in the Kherson region.

“An Armenian citizen has been arrested for participating in military operations as a mercenary on behalf of Ukraine,” the statement reads.

Investigators revealed that Armen Balayan arrived in Ukraine via the border with Moldova in November 2022, and from that point until December 2023, he participated in combat for monetary compensation in the battles occurring in the Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics, as well as in Kherson.

It has been highlighted that in August 2024, Balayan was charged with mercenarism in absentia, and a wanted notice was issued for him.

“In October 2024, Balayan was arrested at Domodedovo Airport while attempting to enter the territory of the Russian Federation. At the behest of the investigation, the Moscow Basmanny District Court chose to detain him,” the statement notes.

The investigation continues to clarify the circumstances and true intentions behind his presence in Russia, according to the Investigative Committee.

“During the interrogation, Balayan admitted his guilt in the commission of the alleged crime, providing comprehensive testimony that confirmed previously established facts regarding his participation as a mercenary in the armed conflict. The accused also stated that he had sustained several injuries during his service,” the Russian authorities’ statement added.

It was noted that the accused also reported having only the citizenship of the Republic of Armenia.