A couple who illegally climbed to the top of the Empire State Building in New York to propose there have appeared in court, where they face a number of charges.
Ivan Kuznetsov, 32, and Angelina Nikolaou, 33, appeared before the New York court, and after the hearing they hugged and kissed in front of cameras and photographers.
Known for illegally climbing tall structures in various countries around the world, the couple climbed the antenna of the famous New York skyscraper, about 443 meters high, on July 1.
During the climb, they unfurled a banner with the message: “When the power of love triumphs over the love of power, the world will know peace.”
Then, Ivan Kuznetsov, known by the nickname Ivan Beerkus for his activities as an urban climber, got down on one knee and proposed to his partner. The couple hugged and kissed on top of the building.
The two, of Russian origin, have become known online for posting videos of themselves climbing tall buildings and structures. Their story was also featured in the Netflix documentary, “Skywalkers: A Love Story.”
The couple face charges that include endangering others, burglary and causing damage. However, they have defended their actions as part of their artistic activity.
“Whatever happens in court, we respect the process and accept the consequences of our choices,” they declared.
They have not yet declared their guilt or innocence.
During the brief court appearance, Kuznetsov and Nikolaou, dressed in black leather jackets and jeans, stood next to each other and held hands as their lawyers represented the couple in court.
The next session is scheduled for September 29th.
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