Ksenia Karelina, a dual citizen of the U.S. and Russia, has been released from a Russian prison following a significant prisoner exchange, as confirmed by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday. The exchange occurred overnight in Abu Dhabi, located in the United Arab Emirates, marking a pivotal moment in U.S.-Russia relations.
Attorney Mikhail Mushailov, representing Karelina, verified her release to ABC News, stating that she is now on her way back home. Secretary Rubio took to social media to announce the news, tweeting, "American Ksenia Karelina is on a plane back home to the United States. She was wrongfully detained by Russia for over a year, and President Trump secured her release."
Karelina, known for her talent as a ballet dancer, faced a harrowing experience in a Russian penal colony. In August 2024, she was sentenced to a 12-year prison term after being convicted of treason. The charges against her included allegedly organizing fundraisers to support Ukraine's military, attending pro-Ukraine rallies, and sharing social media posts critical of Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine.
Chris Van Heerden, Karelina's boyfriend, expressed his support in an interview with ABC News Live shortly after her sentencing. He emphasized her innocence, clarifying that her actions were limited to a single donation of $50 to a Ukrainian charity, underscoring the disproportionate nature of her punishment.
This prisoner exchange highlights ongoing tensions between the United States and Russia, particularly regarding issues of human rights and political expression. Ksenia Karelina's release adds a new chapter to the complex narrative of international diplomacy, illustrating the U.S. government's commitment to advocating for its citizens abroad.
This is a developing story, and readers are encouraged to check back for updates as more information becomes available. Coverage of this high-profile case will continue to evolve, shedding light on the broader implications for U.S.-Russia relations and the treatment of individuals accused of political dissent.
Contributions to this report were made by ABC News correspondents Joe Simonetti and Cindy Smith.
