Ksenia Khavana, a dual U.S. and Russian citizen, has been arrested by Russia’s Federal Security Service on charges of treason. The arrest took place in Yekaterinburg, where she was visiting family. Khavana, also known as Ksenia Karelina, received U.S. citizenship after marrying an American. She worked at Ciel Spa in Los Angeles for eight years and had no relatives in the U.S. She maintained close ties with her family in Russia and visited them annually. However, her recent trip triggered concerns when she failed to return as planned in mid-January. Khavana’s employer described her as kind-hearted and expressed disbelief at the accusations.
The Federal Security Service alleges that Khavana was raising funds for a Ukrainian organization, which they claim were used to support the Ukrainian military. Khavana’s employer disputes this, stating that she was collecting money for humanitarian aid, including medical kits and disaster relief. The nonprofit she allegedly supported confirmed receiving donations but did not disclose donor identities. The U.S. government has expressed awareness of Khavana’s arrest and is seeking more information.
Khavana is currently detained pending investigation. She has communicated with colleagues and expressed a desire to settle her debts in Los Angeles. If convicted of treason, she could face up to 20 years in prison. This arrest coincides with other high-profile cases, such as that of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who faces espionage charges in Russia.
