President Donald Trump is set to welcome Russian-American ballerina Ksenia Karelina to the White House on Monday, following efforts by his administration to secure her release from a Russian prison.
Karelina, who was at risk of serving 12 years in prison, faced accusations linked to a charitable donation made to support Ukraine, which involved a $51 contribution to a related charity. In January 2024, she was detained while visiting family in Yekaterinburg.
It has been disclosed that Karelina holds dual American citizenship and had contributed to a Ukrainian Foundation just before Russia’s conflict with Ukraine began.
She was accused of funneling money to Ukrainian organizations, which was allegedly used to acquire medical supplies and equipment for Ukraine’s military.
Upon her return to the U.S., Karelina reunited with her fiancé, professional boxer Chris Van Heerden, as well as Trump’s deputy peace envoy to the Middle East, Morgan Ortags. Van Heerden expressed his relief, stating, “I am thrilled that my love, Ksenia Karelina, is finally back from her illegal detention in Russia.” He added, “She has faced unimaginable challenges for 15 months, and I can’t wait to hold her. Our dog, Boots, is also eagerly awaiting her return.” He had been urging the Biden administration for a year to assist in her return, feeling that his pleas were largely ignored.
During the negotiations for Karelina’s release, Trump recognized UFC President Dana White for bringing her case to his attention. “They released a young ballerina, and it’s great news,” Trump remarked on her release day.
Under Trump’s administration, Karelina became the second American citizen to be freed from a Russian prison, following the release of teacher Mark Vogel in February, who had been sentenced to 14 years for possession of legally prescribed marijuana.
Karelina was exchanged for Arthur Petrov, a dual citizen of Russia arrested in 2023 for smuggling sensitive microelectronics to the Russian military.
