How to kidnap a Russian ballerina

Prof. Erol Manisali has revealed the breathtaking story of a US American attaché-come-secret agent in his recently published book entitled "An American In A Monastary", published by Derin Publications. The book tells the story of John Meultke, who worked in the 60's and 70's as a commercial attaché in, Taiwan and Cambodia. Perhaps one of the most intriguing stories in the book is the kidnapping of a celebrated Russian ballerina in an ad-hoc operation held in Istanbul, in the summer of 1981. During the Istanbul Festival in July 1981, famous Russian Bolshoi Ballet and their star ballerina Galina Cursina were the most revered guests. A few days later, Cursina made headlines all over the Turkish press - she had been kidnapped and taken from the US consulate in Tepebasi to the airport in great secrecy. Later on, Meultke narrates the full details to Manisali. After many years, Manisali hears about Meultke again, through a mutual friend. Yet another surprise was awaiting him - this time, Meultke had moved into a monastry with his wife and two kids. Â