Ksenia Karelina thanks Trump after release from Russian detention

In April 2025, Ksenia Karelina, a Russian-American former ballerina, was released from a Russian penal colony after being detained for over a year. Karelina was originally arrested in 2024 on charges of "petty hooliganism," which later escalated to treason. Russian authorities alleged that she raised funds for the Ukrainian military while living in the U.S. Her release on April 10 was part of a U.S.-Russian prisoner swap that involved the U.S. releasing Arthur Petrov, a dual German-Russian citizen arrested for selling sensitive electronics to the Russian military. Following her release, Karelina expressed immense gratitude toward former President Donald Trump and the American government. Trump had secured the deal and had previously facilitated the release of other Americans held abroad, reinforcing the belief that under his leadership, America is reclaiming its strength on the global stage. Karelina’s return was celebrated by her family, who felt hopeful and thankful for her safe return and the Trump administration's efforts. As part of her first activity upon returning to the U.S., Karelina visited the White House to meet with Trump, where they shared a moment acknowledging her struggle and the significance of her safe homecoming.