Moscow: Conor Kennedy, the 32-year-old son of US Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr, has been placed on Russia’s international wanted list over allegations that he served as a mercenary while fighting alongside Ukrainian forces.
Russian state media reported that Kennedy is accused of participating in an armed conflict as a mercenary. A Russian court has upheld the decision to place him on the wanted list after his defence appealed the initial ruling.
Kennedy faces up to 10 years in prison
Kennedy is reportedly being prosecuted under Article 353 of the Russian Criminal Code, which covers participation by mercenaries in armed conflicts or military actions.
If convicted under the provision cited by Russian authorities, he could face between seven and 10 years in prison.
The court proceedings were held behind closed doors, according to Russian state media. Kennedy’s defence reportedly opposed the decision but lost its appeal.
He acknowledged fighting in Ukraine
Kennedy had previously said on social media that he travelled to Ukraine in 2022 after becoming deeply affected by the war. He said he joined Ukraine’s International Legion and fought alongside Ukrainian forces in the Kharkiv region.
He reportedly returned from Ukraine in October 2022 and said at the time that he had kept his identity secret while serving with the unit.
Kennedy said he wanted to help after learning about the International Legion and travelled to the Ukrainian embassy to enlist.
Kennedy family connection draws attention
Conor Kennedy is the grandson of former US Attorney General Robert F Kennedy and the grand-nephew of former US President John F Kennedy.
He has also attracted public attention through his previous relationship with American singer Taylor Swift, with the pair dating briefly in 2012.
The latest Russian legal action places Kennedy in the spotlight amid continuing tensions between Russia and Ukraine.