RismadarVoice Reporters
November 12, 2026
Two Russian-born climbers who scaled New York City’s Empire State Building during a viral marriage proposal stunt could face imprisonment and possible immigration consequences as their criminal case continues in Manhattan.
Ivan Kuznetsov, 32, and Angelina Nikolau, 33, are facing felony charges following their unauthorised climb of the landmark skyscraper on July 1, 2026.
The couple’s legal troubles have been complicated by conflicting accounts of negotiations between their defence team and the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office.
According to a report attributed to Fox News, their attorney alleged that prosecutors withdrew from an understanding that would have allowed the defendants to resolve the case through misdemeanour charges.
However, the District Attorney’s Office disputed that account, maintaining that no formal plea offer had been made.
The disagreement has raised uncertainty over whether the case can be resolved without further criminal proceedings.
The latest account states that proceedings have been adjourned until January 28, 2027, for possible grand jury action.
Kuznetsov and Nikolau were arrested after climbing the Empire State Building’s broadcasting antenna, where they displayed a banner promoting peace before Kuznetsov proposed marriage.
Prosecutors alleged that the pair entered restricted areas of the building and damaged a security-door lock to gain access to the antenna.
The incident prompted a response from New York police officers, who had to coordinate safety measures before approaching the climbers.
The defendants subsequently appeared in court on charges including burglary, reckless endangerment and criminal mischief.
They were released under court supervision while proceedings continued.
In an interview broadcast on November 11, the couple acknowledged the dangers associated with the climb and expressed willingness to accept responsibility for their actions.
Their lawyer had previously confirmed that discussions with prosecutors were underway, expressing hope that an agreement could be reached before the end of the year.
A felony conviction could expose the defendants to substantial prison sentences, while their immigration status may also be affected depending on the offences involved and applicable United States immigration law.
However, deportation would not automatically follow every conviction, and the outcome would depend on the specific legal circumstances.
Neither defendant has been convicted in connection with the incident.
The case remains unresolved as both sides await further proceedings.
