Empire State Building climbers face deportation fears after attorney claims plea deal fell apart

The Empire State Building climbers who are facing charges for their daredevil climb to the top of the iconic New York City landmark may face deportation and jail time for the viral stunt.

Angela Nikolau, 33, and Ivan Kuznetsov, 32, went viral after they scaled the skyscraper in July and displayed a black flag bearing the message “when the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.” Kuznetsov then proposed to Nikolau immediately after — and all of it was caught on camera.

Fox News Digital previously reported that the Russian couple was in the process of working out a plea deal with prosecutors, which, according to their attorney, came to a screeching halt following an email from the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office.

Angela Nikolau and Ivan Kuznetsov, who climbed the Empire State Building, look on as they depart the criminal courthouse in New York City, Nov. 12, 2026. (REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz)

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The climbers appeared in court on Thursday for another hearing in the case. They face felony charges of first-degree reckless endangerment, second-degree criminal mischief and third-degree burglary, as well as a misdemeanor charge of unlawful climbing.

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Addressing reporters outside the courthouse following the hearing, Kuznetsov said, “We didn’t damage any property. We didn’t intend to put anyone in danger.”

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Angela Nikolau and Ivan Kuznetsov, who climbed the Empire State Building, leave the criminal courthouse in New York City, Nov. 12, 2026. (REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz)

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He went on to say, “We just wanted to send message of love, and we’re ready to defend ourselves.” He stood holding hands with Nikolau, his fiancée of nearly four months, who broke down in tears outside the courthouse.

Angela Nikolau and Ivan Kuznetsov, who climbed the Empire State Building, arrive at the criminal courthouse in New York City, on November 12, 2026. (REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz)

The couple’s attorney, Noam Biale, said his team accepted an offer from prosecutors where if the climbers pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges, then they would be shielded from what he called “catastrophic immigration consequences.”

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However, Biale said that offer was taken off the table the night before Thursday’s appearance.

Two people were spotted holding a banner on top of the Empire State Building in New York City on July 1, 2026. (WNYW)

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“If sent back to Russia, Mr. Kuznetsov will almost certainly be sent to fight in the war in Ukraine and Ms. Nikolau may be jailed for her artistic expression,” Biale said.

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In a statement sent to Fox News Digital, a spokesperson for the DA’s office said, “As we stated in court, it is not accurate to state that any offer was withdrawn. The charges remain the same.”

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