Gleb Savchenko, a former professional dancer on Dancing with the Stars, is in a legal battle with his ex-wife, Elena Samodanova, over the custody of their children. The dispute has taken an international turn, with the couple's two daughters, Olivia and Zlata, currently residing in Hong Kong. Savchenko claims that the move was initially agreed upon as temporary, with a deadline of June 30, 2024, for the girls to return to the United States. However, he alleges that Samodanova has now obtained permanent residency in Hong Kong, established a new life for herself and the children, and even had another child with her fiancé, all without his consent.
In a recent court filing, Savchenko argues that the situation has forced him to travel to Hong Kong annually to visit his children, despite Samodanova's efforts to restrict his access. He seeks temporary sole legal and physical custody of Olivia, the older of the two daughters, citing her desire to return to Los Angeles and attend school there. Savchenko also mentions that Olivia has been subjected to abusive comments from her mother, including disparaging remarks about her family.
The dancer further accuses Samodanova of taking the children to Russia and Vietnam without his approval, expressing concerns about the ongoing war in Russia and the potential risks involved. He believes that returning Olivia to Samodanova's custody would result in an international wrongful retention or abduction.
The legal proceedings have been set for mediation on August 5, followed by a formal court hearing a few weeks later. This case highlights the complexities of international child custody disputes and the challenges faced by parents when their children are involved in such legal battles.
