Ksenia Karelina, a 32-year-old dual US-Russian citizen and ballerina living in Los Angeles, began her trial for treason in Yekaterinburg, Russia, on Thursday.
Accused of donating around $50 to a pro-Ukrainian charity, Karelina was detained in January while visiting family in Russia. Prosecutors allege her donation to a New York-based Ukrainian organization in February 2022 contributed to purchases for the Ukrainian Armed Forces, including tactical medicine, equipment, and ammunition.
If convicted, Karelina faces up to 20 years in prison. The court conducted the trial behind closed doors, with the next hearing scheduled for August 7. Her case has attracted international attention, with her partner advocating for her release.
The US has criticized Russia for detaining its citizens on what it calls baseless charges, suggesting they are used as leverage for the release of Russians held abroad. Other Americans currently detained in Russia include journalists Evan Gershkovich and Alsu Kurmasheva, and former US Marine Paul Whelan.
