LA Ballerina Detained in Russia Over Alleged Treason

American-Russian ballerina Ksenia Karelina is currently held in Russia on treason charges, which could potentially lead to life imprisonment. Karelina, who is also a dual citizen of Russia, was apprehended by Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) in her hometown of Yekaterinburg on January 28.

A Love Story Turned Nightmare

Karelina’s boyfriend, South African professional boxer Chris van Heerden, has publicly stated that the charges are a result of a charity donation to Ukraine. The couple had recently enjoyed a New Year trip to Istanbul before Karelina traveled to Russia to visit family.

Detainees as Chess Pieces

This incident could potentially represent another move in the ongoing game of detaining citizens between the US and Russia, a strategy that dates back to 2008. The tension escalated in 2022 when the US exchanged former Soviet military officer Viktor Bout for WNBA champion Brittney Griner, who had been detained in Russia.

Increasing Tensions and Casualties

The situation seems to be escalating since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The conflict has resulted in nearly half a million casualties, leading to fears that the detainee situation could worsen. Besides Karelina, Russian officials have arrested Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and ex-US marine Paul Whelan on espionage charges, and English teacher Robert Woodland Romanov on drug charges. All are dual US-Russian citizens.

Cry for Help

Van Heerden is earnestly working to raise awareness and funds for Karelina’s legal defense and return. Karelina, who became a US citizen in 2021, has been living in Los Angeles for the past four years. Van Heerden revealed that they had plans for engagement upon her return from Russia.

Circumstances of the Arrest

After their trip to Istanbul, Karelina decided to visit her family in Russia despite a US state department travel advisory warning against travel to the country. Upon arrival, Russian authorities confiscated her iPhone, which led to her initial fear. However, she was eventually lulled into complacency by the FSB, who scheduled a meeting with her under the guise of returning her phone, only to arrest her instead.