A 32-year-old dual U.S.-Russian citizen, Ksenia Karelina, is facing a treason trial in Yekaterinburg for donating $50 to a Ukrainian charity. Prosecutors allege the funds were used by the Ukrainian armed forces to purchase tactical supplies after the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Karelina, a ballerina living in Los Angeles, was detained during a visit to her family in Russia. If found guilty, she could be sentenced to up to 20 years in prison. Despite the serious charges, Karelina smiled wistfully in court, drawing attention to the potential political motivations behind her arrest.
This case adds to the growing list of U.S. citizens detained in Russia, including journalists and a former marine. The trial also comes amid escalating tensions between Russia and the U.S., with accusations of baseless arrests being used as leverage in international relations.