Harold Jezler, Alsu Kurmasheva and Ksenia Karelina press for Olga Jezler's release
Updated
Updated · USA TODAY · May 10
Harold Jezler, Alsu Kurmasheva and Ksenia Karelina press for Olga Jezler's release
2 articles · Updated · USA TODAY · May 10
At a 5 May Washington event, they met State Department and White House-linked officials as Harold sought help for his wife, jailed in Russia for nearly four years and serving a 10-year sentence.
Supporters say Olga, a Russian citizen and US green card holder, was wrongly convicted after bringing CBD oil to Moscow in 2022 while visiting her sister during cancer treatment.
Her case comes amid broader concern that Russia has used American-linked detainees as leverage; at least seven US citizens or permanent residents are still considered wrongfully detained there.
With another U.S.-Russia prisoner swap announced, what is the price for Olga Jezler’s freedom?
As Russia increasingly detains ordinary Americans, is any U.S. traveler truly safe there?
Olga Jezler’s Detention in Russia: National Advocacy, Legal Struggles, and the Push for Her Release in 2026
Overview
As of May 10, 2026, a significant new push is underway to secure the release of American detainee Olga Jezler. This renewed effort is marked by high-profile advocacy and increased national media attention, culminating in a pivotal day of action in Washington D.C. on May 5. Harold Jezler, Olga’s husband, led this advocacy, traveling to the capital with fellow advocates Alsu Kurmasheva and Ksenia Karelina. Their mission was to amplify awareness of Olga’s case, coinciding with a prestigious Foley Foundation awards ceremony, and highlighting the growing momentum and national focus on her ongoing detention.