Lida Moniava, founder of the Lighthouse Charity Foundation, was released from custody with restrictions while facing charges of spreading 'fake' information about the Russian military.

On the evening of September 3, 2026, the Simonovsky Court in Moscow placed Lida Moniava, founder of the Lighthouse Charity Foundation, under pretrial restrictions. Moniava, a prominent figure in Russian philanthropy, faces criminal charges for allegedly spreading 'fake' information about the Russian military. The case stems from a Telegram post she published marking the first anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Court Hearing and Public Support

Dozens of supporters, including Nobel laureate Dmitry Muratov, actress Tatyana Drubich, and other prominent figures, gathered outside the courthouse to support Moniava. As the hearing proceeded, the crowd chanted her name and waited for the court's decision. The press was not permitted to attend the proceedings.

Pretrial Restrictions and Charges

Following the hearing, Moniava’s attorney, Mikhail Biryukov, announced that she was released from custody but placed under a 'ban on certain activities.' While the investigation continues, Moniava is prohibited from using the internet, communicating with witnesses, and leaving her home between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. Moniava stated that investigators had spent hours attempting to persuade her to admit guilt, which she refused to do.

Background on the Case

Moniava was arrested following a police search of her home on August 2. In February 2026, she was fined 45,000 rubles for 'discrediting' the Russian military in social media posts regarding children killed in missile strikes. Despite the legal pressure, Moniava has continued her work with the Lighthouse Charity Foundation, which provides care for children with severe illnesses and assistance to refugees.