US soldier Gordon Black, 34, has been sentenced to nearly four years in a Russian penal colony after being found guilty of theft and threats to kill his girlfriend in Vladivostok.

Black, who traveled to Russia without Pentagon authorization, was convicted despite only partially admitting guilt to the theft charge and denying the threats. His case adds to the rising tensions between the US and Russia, where at least a dozen American citizens, including journalist Evan Gershkovich, are currently detained. The defense plans to appeal the verdict.

Gordon Black's detention and subsequent sentencing have become a focal point in ongoing diplomatic tensions between the United States and Russia. Black, a staff sergeant in the US military, was accused of stealing 10,000 rubles (roughly $112) from his girlfriend, Alexandra Vashchuk. The theft and threats reportedly occurred in Vladivostok, a city in Russia's Far East region, where Black was detained.

During the court proceedings, Black admitted partial guilt to the theft charge but categorically denied threats to kill his girlfriend. The court did not fully accept his denial and proceeded to convict him on both charges. His defense team argued for an acquittal, contending that there was insufficient evidence to support the charges, particularly the threat to kill.

Prosecutors had initially recommended a prison sentence of four years and eight months for Black, citing the gravity of the charges. However, the court handed down a slightly lighter sentence of just under four years. The specifics of the penal colony where Black will serve his sentence have not been disclosed.

Black's defense lawyer has already announced plans to appeal the verdict. The appeal process in Russia can be complex and lengthy, often requiring new evidence or significant procedural arguments to overturn a lower court's decision.

Black's travel to Russia was unauthorized by the Pentagon, raising questions about his reasons for being in the country. Such unauthorized travel by military personnel is generally subject to stringent regulations and disciplinary measures. The circumstances surrounding his visit remain unclear and have not been elaborated upon by either US or Russian authorities.

The case of Gordon Black is the latest in a series of incidents where American citizens have been detained in Russia. Currently, at least a dozen US nationals are held in the country under various charges. Notably, Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich is among them, facing espionage charges. Gershkovich’s trial is expected to be conducted behind closed doors, which is customary for cases involving alleged espionage.

Black's sentencing has further complicated US-Russia relations, which are already strained over a myriad of issues, including geopolitical tensions and mutual accusations of espionage. Diplomatic channels between the two nations are likely to be further tested as the US seeks to provide consular support to its detained citizens.