On Thursday, a Russian court sentenced Ksenia Khavana, a dual US-Russian citizen, to 12 years in prison for treason. The court found her guilty of raising funds for the Ukrainian military. The charges were linked to a $51 (£40) donation she made to a US charity aiding Ukraine. Khavana, arrested in Ekaterinburg in February and identified by her birth name, Karelina, admitted guilt in her closed trial last week.
Details of the Case and Allegations
Khavana, who obtained US citizenship after marrying an American and moving to Los Angeles, had returned to Russia for a family visit. Russian authorities claimed she “proactively collected money” for Ukrainian organizations, which was used to buy tactical medical supplies, equipment, weapons, and ammunition for the Ukrainian armed forces.
Broader Context and Recent Developments
Since the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia has intensified its crackdown on dissent, including laws against criticizing the military operation. This month, Russia released several individuals in the largest prisoner exchange with the West since the Cold War, including Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and American corporate security executive Paul Whelan, both imprisoned on espionage charges. Additionally, Radio Liberty/Radio Free Europe journalist Alsu Kurmasheva was released after serving six-and-a-half years for spreading “false information” about the Russian military.