U.S. Navy Veteran Sentenced to Five Years in Russian Prison Over Firearm on Yacht
SOCHI, Russia — Charles Wayne Zimmerman, a 58-year-old U.S. Navy veteran, was sentenced to five years in a Russian prison after authorities found a firearm aboard his yacht when he was compelled to dock in the port city of Sochi. Zimmerman’s case has drawn international attention amid heightened tensions between the United States and Russia.
Zimmerman, who had been reported missing by U.S. officials prior to the announcement of his sentencing, was intercepted by Russian authorities while sailing from North Carolina to New Zealand. According to the U.S. Department of State, Zimmerman departed North Carolina in July 2024, navigating through several European countries before arriving near Russian territorial waters. Russian naval forces reportedly forced Zimmerman to dock in Sochi on June 19, 2025, citing concerns over undeclared weapons onboard his vessel.
Local authorities in Krasnodar Krai, the region encompassing Sochi, stated that during border control procedures, Zimmerman failed to declare a firearm that was found during an inspection of the yacht. The court system revealed that the weapons and ammunition were allegedly purchased prior to his entry into Russian waters. Zimmerman subsequently pleaded guilty to smuggling weapons, according to the Krasnodar Krai court system, which convicted him in October 2025. The verdict was upheld two months later on appeal.
Zimmerman’s supporters, including a website established to advocate on his behalf, describe him as a dedicated father of two, a former U.S. Navy serviceman, and a professional electrician. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs confirms his veteran status, highlighting the challenges veterans can face abroad.
The case has raised concerns among U.S. officials, who have called for transparency and due process in the handling of Zimmerman’s detention. The U.S. Department of Justice has not publicly commented on ongoing diplomatic efforts but remains engaged in monitoring the situation closely.
This incident underscores the complexities of maritime law and international relations, particularly in regions where geopolitical tensions remain high. The Russian government maintains strict regulations regarding firearms and has been known to enforce these rigorously in its ports and territorial waters. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection advises travelers to be fully aware of local laws when entering foreign jurisdictions, especially concerning the transport of weapons.
Zimmerman’s sentencing comes amid a broader pattern of detentions involving foreign nationals in Russia, which has drawn criticism from human rights organizations and foreign governments alike. Advocates emphasize the importance of fair trials and the protection of individual rights under international law.
As Zimmerman begins his sentence, diplomatic channels between Washington and Moscow remain active, with hopes for a resolution that respects legal standards and humanitarian considerations. The veteran’s family continues to call for his release, underscoring the personal toll of this international dispute.
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