Russian Mercenary Arrested After Illegal Border Crossing

Timur Praliev, a former Russian mercenary linked to the Wagner Group, was arrested by U.S. Border Patrol after illegally crossing the Rio Grande into Texas. Carrying two passports, $4,000, 60,000 pesos, and a drone, he claimed to be a citizen of Kazakhstan. The Wagner Group, classified as a criminal organization by the U.S. Treasury Department, has been involved in serious criminal activities globally, including the Russia-Ukraine war. During his court appearance, federal prosecutor Amanda McColgan expressed concerns for community safety upon Praliev's release, recommending a 15-day sentence. However, he was ultimately sentenced to time served. The case raises alarms amid an increase in apprehensions of individuals from countries with potential ties to terrorism.