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Harvard Scientist Faces Smuggling Charges Amid Deportation Battle

5/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Harvard scientist Kseniia Petrova, a Russian national, faces federal smuggling charges after allegedly failing to declare frog embryos upon her arrival in Boston. As the Trump administration pushes for her deportation, her lawyers contest the legality of her detention. Supporters warn that her case endangers the safety of international scholars in the U.S.

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Story summary

Harvard scientist Kseniia Petrova, a Russian national, faces federal smuggling charges after allegedly failing to declare frog embryos upon her arrival in Boston. As the Trump administration pushes for her deportation, her lawyers contest the legality of her detention. Supporters warn that her case endangers the safety of international scholars in the U.S.