The trial of U.S.-Russian former ballerina Ksenia Karelina has commenced in Moscow, where she is facing serious charges of treason for allegedly acting as an American spy. Karelina, a dual-citizen residing in Los Angeles, was detained during a visit to her family in Russia in February, initially on charges of 'petty hooliganism' before the more severe accusations of treason were brought against her.
Authorities claim that Karelina was involved in raising funds for the Ukrainian army and participating in public actions supporting Ukraine while in the U.S. However, her boyfriend has defended her, stating that she is proud to be Russian and does not engage with news or interfere in matters related to the war.
Allegations arose after authorities examined Karelina's phone, revealing photos of her at an anti-Putin and anti-war protest in Los Angeles, holding a sign advocating for peace. Reports suggest that the charges against her are linked to a small sum of $51.80 that she allegedly sent to a Ukrainian charity.
Despite attempts to appeal her case and seek release, Karelina remains in pre-trial detention in a Siberian jail. Her trial is set to be held behind closed doors, a practice that often leads to convictions in such cases.
If found guilty, Karelina could face a harsh sentence ranging from 12 years to life in prison. The trial, which was adjourned until August 7 without a specified reason, adds to the growing number of cases in Russia targeting individuals expressing anti-war sentiments.
Notably, the judge overseeing Karelina's case will also preside over the trial of American journalist Evan Gershkovich, who has been detained in Moscow's Lefortovo Prison on espionage charges for nearly 15 months. Negotiations for Gershkovich's release have been acknowledged by Russian authorities, shedding light on the complexities of such cases.
