Skip to main content

Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.

Russian authorities have arrested a dual Russian-American citizen, a 33-year-old woman from Los Angeles, on allegations of treason for her involvement in fundraising to support Ukraine amid its war with Russia.

The Federal Security Service (FSB) in Yekaterinburg disclosed that the suspect had been “involved in providing financial assistance to a foreign state in activities directed against the security of our country” since 2022, with funds allegedly going toward the Ukrainian war effort, including medicine, equipment, weapons, and ammunition.

The FSB further accused her of actively participating in public demonstrations in the United States in support of the Kyiv regime. She now faces charges under article 275 of the Russian Criminal Code, which carries a sentence of 12 to 20 years in prison and the potential for property confiscation. The woman is currently held under pre-trial custody, a common practice for foreign and dual nationals arrested in Russia.

There has been no immediate response from the US Embassy in Moscow or the State Department regarding the arrest. However, a White House official said efforts are underway to “obtain more information and secure consular access to the individual.” This case adds to the growing list of US citizens detained in Russia under various charges, including drug trafficking, failing to register as a foreign agent, and espionage, illustrating the increasing diplomatic strains between Washington and Moscow.

The arrest coincides with the nearing second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a period that has seen the US considering increased military aid to Kyiv. The Biden administration is deliberating over supplying long-range ATACMS missiles to Ukraine, even as a new aid package faces delays in Congress, signaling ongoing international efforts to address the conflict’s complexities.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

Keep up to date with our latest videos, news and content