Ukrainian aid donor sentenced to 12 years for treason
Ksenia Khavana, a dual citizen of the United States and Russia, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for treason in Russia. This sentence comes after Khavana was convicted of allegedly collecting money for the Ukrainian army through a $51 donation to a US charity.
The Federal Security Service of Russia claimed that Khavana actively gathered funds for a Ukrainian organization, which were then used to purchase medical supplies, equipment, weapons, and ammunition for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Khavana, who is a former ballerina, became a US citizen after marrying her American husband and moving to Los Angeles. She was arrested in Yekaterinburg when she returned to Russia to visit family.
In a closed-door hearing, Khavana pleaded guilty to the charges, admitting to transferring the funds. However, her lawyer, Mikhail Mushailov, stated that Khavana was unaware that the money would be used for activities against Russia. They plan to appeal the decision, with Khavana’s husband, Chris Van Heerden, campaigning for her release.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the country has implemented laws criminalizing criticism of its actions in Ukraine and statements that tarnish the reputation of the Russian military. Khavana’s conviction comes on the heels of a major prisoner swap between Moscow and Washington, which also included Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich who was convicted of espionage.
The case of Ksenia Khavana highlights the complexities of dual citizenship and the challenges faced by individuals caught in political tensions between countries. The outcome of her appeal will be closely watched as she continues to fight against her treason conviction in Russia.
