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Former US Airman Defects to Russian Military, Denies Treason

Wilmer Puello-Mota, facing charges in the US, appears in Russian defense video as a drone operator, claims innocence.

Wilmer Puello-Mota, who served for 10 years in the U.S. Air Force reportedly defected in April. According to the Telegram post he is serving as a reconnaissance drone operator in a UAV platoon.
Former Air Force Tech. Sgt. Wilmer Puello-Mota is interviewed in a video released by Russia’s defense ministry. (Telegram screenshot)
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Overview

  • Puello-Mota fled the US before his trial on child abuse material charges.
  • He now serves in a Russian reconnaissance unit with the call sign 'Boston'.
  • In the video, he criticizes US foreign policy and denies being a traitor.
  • He praises his Russian comrades and describes using his US military skills.
  • Puello-Mota's defection follows a pattern of other American servicemen joining Russian forces.