Balian, 36, was arrested at Domodedovo Airport in October upon his arrival to the Russian capital and charged with recruiting and participating as a mercenary in an armed conflict.
According to the Investigative Committee, Balian traveled to Ukraine in November 2022 via Moldova and enlisted, participating in military operations as part of territorial-defense units. He served in various conflict zones, including the Donetsk, Luhansk, and Kherson regions.
Balian reportedly admitted to his involvement in the fighting and acknowledged his role as a mercenary in Ukraine. The case against him is still under investigation and further details are yet to be disclosed.