In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, Ksenia Karelina, an American citizen imprisoned in Russia for a charity donation, was released following a rare prisoner swap. This move highlights ongoing attempts by Washington and Moscow to improve strained relations.
American Citizen Released in Russia Amid Diplomatic Efforts
American Citizen Released in Russia Amid Diplomatic Efforts
Ksenia Karelina, an American detained on charges linked to charity contributions, returns home after negotiations.
April 10, 2025, 6:21 a.m. ET
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on Thursday the release of Ksenia Karelina, an American imprisoned in Russia, marking a notable moment in U.S.-Russia relations. Karelina, a dual citizen of the United States and Russia, had been sentenced to 12 years in prison after being convicted of treason for a modest contribution of approximately $50 to a nonprofit aiding Ukraine.
Rubio confirmed that Karelina, 33, is "on a plane back home to the United States" and emphasized that her detention for over a year was unjust. He noted that former President Trump played a crucial role in negotiating her release.
The details of her release emerged from reports by The Wall Street Journal, which stated that the prisoner exchange occurred in Abu Dhabi. This incident coincides with talks between U.S. and Russian diplomats in Turkey regarding the resumption of direct flights and the restoration of embassy staffing.
Karelina's release follows the earlier liberation of Marc Fogel, an American teacher imprisoned in Russia on drug-related charges. His release was facilitated through a negotiation involving Trump's special envoy to the Middle East, which also resulted in the transfer of Russian Alexander Vinnik, convicted of money laundering conspiracy.
As diplomatic dialogues continue, this exchange serves as a hopeful signal for the future of U.S.-Russia relations.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on Thursday the release of Ksenia Karelina, an American imprisoned in Russia, marking a notable moment in U.S.-Russia relations. Karelina, a dual citizen of the United States and Russia, had been sentenced to 12 years in prison after being convicted of treason for a modest contribution of approximately $50 to a nonprofit aiding Ukraine.
Rubio confirmed that Karelina, 33, is "on a plane back home to the United States" and emphasized that her detention for over a year was unjust. He noted that former President Trump played a crucial role in negotiating her release.
The details of her release emerged from reports by The Wall Street Journal, which stated that the prisoner exchange occurred in Abu Dhabi. This incident coincides with talks between U.S. and Russian diplomats in Turkey regarding the resumption of direct flights and the restoration of embassy staffing.
Karelina's release follows the earlier liberation of Marc Fogel, an American teacher imprisoned in Russia on drug-related charges. His release was facilitated through a negotiation involving Trump's special envoy to the Middle East, which also resulted in the transfer of Russian Alexander Vinnik, convicted of money laundering conspiracy.
As diplomatic dialogues continue, this exchange serves as a hopeful signal for the future of U.S.-Russia relations.
