Russell, 20, has represented her country over 45 times at Under 15, 17, 19 and senior level.
Belles manager John Buckley said: "I'm delighted that we have been able to bring Julie-Ann to the club.
"She has been on our radar for the last couple of years so it's nice to have finally secured her signature.
"Julie-Ann has progressed all the way through the Irish youth set up in to the senior side. She is a winger that can play either side, she can go past people and has a good left foot."
Russell a former FAI Under 19 Women's Player of the Year began her career with Salthill Devon.
She enjoyed a successful spell at Galway Ladies including winning the FAI Senior Women's Cup final before the talented winger signed a contract with American W-League club Los Angeles Strikers in April 2011.
She returned to Ireland to play for Peamount United in the 2011-12 UEFA Women's Champions League.
Donny's assistant manager Paul Green added: "Julie-Ann is an attacking player who is hungry to do well and I'm looking forward to working with her.
"She gives us good options and we now have terrific competition for places in wide areas."