To:

President Donald J. Trump
Vice President J.D. Vance
Secretary of State Marco Rubio
Lt. General Keith Kellogg
Special Envoy Steve Witkoff
US Senator Dick Durbin, Democrat, IL
US Senator Tammy Duckworth, Democrat, IL
US Representative Mike Quigley, Democrat, 5th Congressional District, IL
President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin

Subject: Urgent Request for Assistance in Securing the Return of U.S. Citizen Leon Levenstein, Age 5, from Russia

Nick Levenstein pictured with his son, Leon, now four years old. Leon was in Russia with his mother when she tragically passed away in 2023. Despite Nick’s efforts to reunite with his son, Leon remains in Russia, caught in a prolonged legal process that has prevented his return.

Dear President Trump, Vice President Vance, Secretary Rubio, Lt. General Kellogg, Special Envoy Witkoff, Esteemed Members of Congress, and President Putin,

I am writing as a father in deep anguish, urgently seeking your immediate intervention and diplomatic support in the case of my four-year-old son, Leon Levenstein, who is currently in Russia. Leon was in Russia with his mother when she tragically passed away. Since her death, Leon has remained in Russia without me by his side. Despite having a father who is desperate to reunite with him, he is facing life without the care and support of either parent. I implore you to prioritize his return to the United States and assist in resolving this heartbreaking situation.

What Happened

On December 5, 2023, just 12 days after arriving in Russia, my son’s mother tragically passed away. The following day, Leon was placed in the care of a maternal uncle. I was not informed of her passing or my son’s whereabouts until December 19, when I was able to uncover the details through private investigators. Since that time, I have made every possible effort to reunite with him, but have encountered significant legal and bureaucratic hurdles.

Though Russian law grants me visitation rights, the process for securing these rights is long and arduous, and I have not been able to see or communicate with my son, even virtually, since December 2023. If I were to attempt to retrieve him or make direct contact outside of legal channels, I could face arrest.

Additional details regarding my case are available at https://www.bringleonhome.org.

Seeking a Diplomatic Solution

While I recognize that this matter is governed by Russian law, I am appealing to the U.S. government to engage diplomatically and ensure that my parental rights are respected and upheld within the legal framework of Russia. I believe that through diplomatic channels, this issue can be resolved, and I request your help in opening negotiations to facilitate my ability to see and reunite with my son. Opportunities such as the Munich Security Conference and other diplomatic engagements provide crucial moments to address this case.

My Experiences in Russia

During my time in Russia, I have been treated with professionalism and respect by many individuals, despite encountering some bureaucratic obstacles. On January 30, 2024, four representatives from President Putin’s Commissioner for Children’s Rights met with me, my legal team, and a translator in Moscow. They expressed surprise and concern over my case and indicated a willingness to provide support through the legal process, possibly by offering assistance similar to an amicus brief.

Although I have faced delays at immigration, I have not experienced hostility. Many individuals, including Russian officials, have expressed empathy for my situation. It is clear to me that there is an opportunity for collaboration and support that could help resolve this issue in a fair and just manner.

The U.S. Government’s Role

The tragic loss of my son’s mother should not result in a permanent loss of his father as well. As such, I respectfully request that the U.S. government take the following actions:

• Diplomatic Engagement: Actively engage with Russian officials to facilitate legal proceedings that will allow me to reunite with my son.
• Advocacy for Other Parents: Provide assistance and advocacy for any other American parents facing similar challenges in Russia.
• Support from the State Department: Ensure that the U.S. State Department is fully engaged in supporting American citizens in these difficult and urgent circumstances.

Conclusion

I understand that international custody matters are often complex, but this situation is urgent and deeply personal. I respectfully ask for your immediate assistance in facilitating my reunion with my son, Leon. With your support, I hope to navigate the Russian legal system and bring my son back to the United States where he belongs.

Thank you for your time, consideration, and prompt action on this matter of utmost importance.

Sincerely,

Nicholas Levenstein