Russian couple climbs Empire State Building to propose with peace banner, then arrested by police for the stunt
A Russian couple climbed the Empire State Building in New York City on July 1 to display a peace banner during a marriage proposal.Angela Nikolau and Vanya Beerkus scaled the building, sharing their experience on social media while advocating for world peace.
Proposal stunt
The couple displayed a banner that read: “When the power of love beats the love of power the world knows peace.”
After proposing, Beerkus got down on one knee, and Nikolau took photos of her ring for Instagram.
The couple’s climbing adventures were featured in the upcoming documentary “Skywalkers: A Love Story.”
Authorities closed streets around the building and arrested the couple, stating they would face unspecified charges.
It remains unclear how they accessed the building’s antenna spire.
Security at New York landmarks has intensified since the 2001 World Trade Center attacks.
An Empire State Building spokesperson called the climb an “unauthorized incident” and suggested using their $1,000 proposal package instead.
Nikolau’s father, a Russian circus artist, expressed support for her actions, stating climbing on rooftops is normal.
He commented that he was not worried about her arrest, as he also climbs rooftops.
Empire State Building Climbers — He Proposed at the Top & She Said YES! — (Video: AI)
Update: The man who climbed the Empire State Building spire with his girlfriend just proposed to her at the very top — and she said yes! ❤️
What started as a daring (and illegal) stunt turned… https://t.co/HJk0JiRKdW pic.twitter.com/Uu2FCAY5bZ
— Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) July 1, 2026
Couple arrested
The incident occurred during a vibrant period in New York City, amid preparations for the upcoming July 4 celebrations.
The Empire State Building remains a popular tourist destination, offering visitors observation deck access.
Climbing to the antenna is strictly prohibited for safety reasons.
The couple’s bold stunt garnered significant media attention and public interest.
