Expressing gratitude to her supporters, she stated, 'I never really felt alone any minute when I was in custody,' while wearing a 'Hakuna Matata' T-shirt.

Federal prosecutors have escalated her case with a felony smuggling charge, which could lead to a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison.

Her immigration attorney noted that her ability to continue working at Harvard is uncertain, as she considers offers from other countries interested in her research.

In May 2025, Petrova was formally charged with smuggling after returning from France, where she obtained frog embryo samples for research.

Upon her arrival at Boston Logan International Airport, she was detained by U.S. Customs and later transferred to an ICE facility in Louisiana.

A federal magistrate judge in Boston ruled her detention unlawful and ordered her release, imposing conditions that she remain in New England during her pending criminal case.

Petrova left the courthouse smiling and embraced supporters, having been in custody since February.

Despite her release, Petrova's legal situation remains complex; her student visa was revoked, and she faces potential deportation to Russia.

Petrova's detention has drawn attention to the broader issues of immigration and research regulations affecting international academics in the U.S.

In addition to the smuggling charge, she faces a separate charge in Massachusetts, with a probable cause hearing scheduled for June 18, 2025.

Her colleagues at Harvard have rallied in her support, emphasizing the significance of her cancer research and describing her expertise as 'irreplaceable.'

Petrova contests the claims made by the Department of Homeland Security regarding false information provided during her questioning at the airport.