U.S. indicts global arms dealer Viktor Bout on terrorism-related charges

U.S. prosecutors announced an indictment against a Russian arms dealer who they say tried to sell weapons to a U.S.-designated terrorist organization with the goal of killing Americans.

The indictment charges Viktor Bout with four terrorism offenses, including conspiring to kill Americans, conspiring to kill U.S. officers or employees, conspiring to provide material support to terrorists and conspiring to acquire and use an antiaircraft missile.

Prosecutors said he and others planned to sell arms to leftist rebels in Colombia. His arsenal included surface-to-air missiles and aircraft, they said.

Bout, who denies involvement in illicit deals, is in custody in Thailand. The U.S. is seeking his extradition.