Harvard Scientist Detained by ICE
CAMBRIDGE, MA., May 15, 2025 - Kseniia Petrova, a Russian researcher at Harvard, was detained by ICE in February 2025 after allegedly failing to declare frog embryo samples upon reentering the U.S. from Japan. Facing smuggling charges, Petrova claims the incident was a misunderstanding and that the embryos were non-hazardous. Her detention in a Louisiana jail has drawn criticism from scientists and civil rights advocates, who argue the case is politically motivated and could deter international researchers. Petrova fled Russia in 2023 after protesting the Ukraine war and fears persecution if deported. Her legal team is seeking her release and dismissal of the criminal charges.
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