A Russian court sentenced Ksenia Karelina, a 33-year-old Russian-American woman, to 12 years in prison for treason after she donated just over $50 to a US-based charity supporting Ukraine.

Karelina, who pleaded guilty, was arrested in Yekaterinburg while visiting her grandparents.

The trial was held behind closed doors, and investigators claimed her donation was intended to purchase equipment and ammunition for the Ukrainian army.

Her lawyer plans to appeal the verdict and hopes for a future prisoner exchange, CNN has reported.

Karelina’s conviction follows increased penalties for treason in Russia amid a broader crackdown on dissent.

Written by B.C. Begley