Ksenia Karelina Released in U.S.-Russia Prisoner Exchange

Ksenia Karelina, a dual citizen and ballet dancer, was released from a Russian prison following a prisoner exchange. She had been serving a 12-year sentence for treason due to her support for Ukraine. The exchange occurred in Abu Dhabi and was confirmed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Her release involved negotiations between U.S. and Russian intelligence agencies.

Ksenia Karelina, a U.S.-Russian dual citizen and ballet dancer, was released from a Russian prison in a prisoner exchange, confirmed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Karelina, who had been serving a 12-year sentence for treason, was freed overnight in Abu Dhabi, UAE, according to her lawyer Mikhail Mushailov.

Secretary Rubio announced via Twitter that Karelina was wrongfully detained for over a year, and noted that President Trump helped secure her release. U.S. and Russian intelligence agencies facilitated the negotiations for this exchange.

The Federal Security Service of Russia (FSB) confirmed Karelina’s release, which was executed under a pardon decree by President Vladimir Putin. The exchange involved German-Russian citizen Artur Petrov, who was arrested in Cyprus in 2023 at the U.S.’s request and later extradited.

Petrov faced charges related to acquiring U.S.-sourced microelectronics meant for Russian military suppliers, indicating the high-stakes nature of this prisoner swap. Karelina had been sentenced for allegedly fundraising for Ukraine’s military and expressing anti-war sentiments on social media.

Her boyfriend, Chris Van Heerden, maintained her innocence, stating that her actions were benign, including a $50 donation to a Ukrainian charity. This story is ongoing, and further updates are anticipated.

Ksenia Karelina’s release from a Russian prison highlights a complex prisoner exchange facilitated by both U.S. and Russian intelligence. Her conviction for treason was tied to her support for Ukraine, while the exchange involved a Russian citizen accused of serious charges. Karelina’s case raises questions regarding free speech and political dissent in the context of international relations. Further developments in the story are expected as new information emerges.

Original Source: 6abc.com