The Federal Security Service (FSB) of Russia has initiated criminal proceedings against Ilya Ponomarev, a former deputy of the State Duma who has been labeled in Russia as a foreign agent and listed among terrorists and extremists. The formal disclosure of the cases was reported by a major Russian outlet citing law enforcement sources.
According to the agency, the FSB’s investigation department filed charges against Ponomarev for treason in the form of defections to the enemy’s side, for participation in activities attributed to organizations recognized as terrorist in Russia, and for public appeals. The charges allege that he used the Internet to carry out terrorist activities and to make public appeals, while framing these actions as efforts to influence Russia’s security environment online.
Investigators have merged all related criminal matters into one consolidated case.
On January 25, Ponomarev was added to the list of individuals designated as terrorists and extremists.
Late last year, the Russian Investigative Committee opened a separate criminal case against the former State Duma deputy under the article addressing dissemination of false information about the use of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. He had previously been sought by authorities. In late August, a request was issued to arrest Ponomarev in absentia on forgery charges connected to the Russian Armed Forces.
Earlier, in October, the Ministry of Justice included Ponomarev on the foreign agents register.
The developments unfold amid ongoing state actions to categorize and pursue individuals accused of actions deemed harmful to the Russian state, including the spread of information considered false or dangerous to national security. Observers note that the case reflects the broader pattern of Russian authorities tightening controls over dissent and public discourse tied to national defense and security matters. Analysts point to the use of multiple legal mechanisms to address alleged offenses, ranging from treason and extremism to false information about military activity, illustrating a multi-faceted legal framework used in politically sensitive cases. In official statements, authorities emphasize that the measures are aimed at safeguarding national security and public order, while critics caution that rapid designations and prosecutions can raise concerns about civil liberties and the scope of political retribution in high-profile cases. The situation continues to unfold as authorities pursue investigations across several legal avenues and as international observers monitor potential implications for opposition figures and media freedom in the region. (attribution: primary agency disclosures and routine state reporting sources)