Moldovan citizen detained over attempted killing of Russian soldier PHOTO/VIDEO

A 21-year-old Moldovan citizen has been detained in Russia’s Saratov Region on suspicion of attempting to kill a soldier, according to Russian authorities.

The suspect allegedly opened fire on the serviceman in the city of Engels on September 3, firing at least six shots. The soldier survived after receiving medical treatment.

During questioning, the suspect, identified as Nikolai Kocha, allegedly told investigators that he had been recruited in Ukraine in spring 2026 and offered $70,000, equivalent to about 6 million Russian rubles, to carry out the killing.

Authorities said Kocha subsequently travelled to Russia in transit through several other countries before carrying out the alleged attack.

By Sabina Mammadli