A Russian suspected of selling weapons to insurgents across the world for two decades has been extradited to New York to face terrorism charges.

Viktor Bout was flown from Bangkok to New York yesterday and taken to the Metropolitan Correctional Center in Lower Manhattan. He is expected in Manhattan federal court this afternoon.

Bout has been called the “merchant of death.” He’s been indicted on four charges of conspiracy, accused of providing support to groups in Africa, South America and the Middle East who tried to kill Americans.

Bout, whose wealth from business is estimated around $6 billion, was arrested in Thailand in March 2008, and his extradition comes despite pleas from Russia for Thailand to release him.

He says he’s a legitimate businessman and innocent of all charges.

The case has strained relations between the United States and Russia, and could jeopardize cooperation on issues including arms control and the war in Afghanistan.

American officials describe the prosecution as a milestone in efforts to slow the flow of illicit weapons in international conflicts.

(Source: NY1)