Behind in the Fight to Bring Wrongfully Detained Americans Home
Ksenia Karelina, a naturalized American citizen, built a quiet life in Los Angeles, working at a luxury spa and nurturing her love for ballet. A Russian immigrant who came to America in 2012, she had carved out her own version of the American dream — one that now feels impossibly far away.
In January 2024, what was meant to be a short trip home to visit family in Russia turned into a nightmare. She was arrested, initially accused of “petty hooliganism,” but the charge soon escalated to treason. The reason? A $51.80 donation to an American-based charity supporting Ukrainian emergency workers on the day of the invasion. By August, she had been sentenced to 12 years in a Russian penal colony.
Ms. Karelina’s boyfriend, South African professional boxer Chris Van Heerden, has used his platform to advocate her release, shining a light on the peril dual citizens face in Russia’s tightening grip. In February, 13 months after Ms. Karelina was first detained and six months following her sentencing, the United States Department of State issued the official “wrongfully detained” designation.
When an American is detained, United States consular officials must be notified to assess their treatment. Yet securing an official wrongful detention designation — a key step in diplomatic efforts — can take weeks, months, or even years.
Today, March 9, marks United States Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day.
So, how does this process actually work? What happens next?