In a significant diplomatic move, Russia has released Ksenia Karelina, a dual Russian-American citizen, as part of a prisoner exchange with the United States. Karelina, a 33-year-old amateur ballerina from Los Angeles, was serving a 12-year sentence in Russia for treason. Her conviction stemmed from a $50 donation to a U.S.-based charity supporting humanitarian aid in Ukraine, which Russian authorities claimed was used to fund the Ukrainian military.
In exchange for Karelina's release, the U.S. freed Arthur Petrov, a dual Russian-German citizen accused of smuggling sensitive electronics to Russia.
The swap took place in Abu Dhabi, facilitated by intelligence agencies from both countries. This marks the second prisoner exchange between the U.S. and Russia since President Trump resumed office, following the release of American educator Marc Fogel in February.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised the move, stating that President Trump played a crucial role in securing Karelina's release. The exchange reflects ongoing efforts to build trust between the two nations amid broader diplomatic efforts related to the Ukraine conflict.