The trial of former American ballerina, Ksenia Karelina, accused of espionage in Moscow, began on Thursday. Karelina, who holds dual citizenship, was arrested in February while visiting family in Russia. Initially detained for “petty hooliganism,” she now faces charges of treason. Authorities claim she raised money for the Ukrainian army and participated in pro-Ukraine activities while in the U.S.
Karelina’s boyfriend, Chris Van Deerden, defended her, stating that she is proud to be Russian and does not follow the news or get involved in political matters. Her former mother-in-law, Eleonora Sreborski, mentioned that Karelina had reassured her boyfriend that Russia was safe for her to visit.
Photos from Karelina’s phone allegedly show her at an anti-Putin protest in Los Angeles, holding a sign advocating for peace. She appeared in court wearing casual attire and listened to the charges against her. Reports suggest that the charges are related to a small donation she made to a Ukrainian charity.
Despite her attempts to appeal her case and the court’s decision to extend her pre-trial detention in a Siberian jail, Karelina’s trial is set to continue behind closed doors. If found guilty, she could face a lengthy prison sentence ranging from 12 years to life. The trial has been adjourned until August 7 for undisclosed reasons.
Karelina’s case is part of a larger crackdown on anti-war sentiment in Russia, with several similar cases emerging. The judge overseeing her trial, Andrey Mineev, is also presiding over the case of American journalist Evan Gershkovich, who has been detained in Moscow for espionage for nearly 15 months.
Negotiations for Gershkovich’s release have reportedly taken place, indicating a potential shift in the situation. The outcome of Karelina and Gershkovich’s trials will be closely watched as they navigate the complex legal system in Russia.