Russian actress added to list of “terrorists and extremists” after criticizing the government

Yana Troyanova. Instagram @troyanovayana
Yana Troyanova. Instagram @troyanovayana

The Investigative Committee accused the Russian artist of “humiliating the honor and dignity of Russians”; Yana Troyanova lives abroad and has already been labeled a “foreign agent” by the government

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Actress Yana Troyanova, known for her work in film and Russian television, has been declared internationally wanted by the Russian authorities. The decision was made after the Investigative Committee opened a criminal case against her on charges of “inciting hatred on national grounds.”

The announcement was made on October 3 by the press office of the Investigative Committee of Russia (IC RF).

Charges and legal measures

According to the investigative body, Troyanova’s statements were aimed at “humiliating the honor and dignity of Russians,” an offense under the country’s Criminal Code.

The actress was tried in absentia, and her name was included in the official records of “terrorists and extremists.”

In addition, the Russian Ministry of Justice also designated her as a “foreign agent,” a label often used by Moscow against artists, journalists, and activists critical of the government.

Yana Troyanova. Instagram @troyanovayana
Yana Troyanova. Instagram @troyanovayana
Stance against the war

Yana Troyanova, who resides outside Russia, had previously spoken out publicly against the war in Ukraine, criticizing the invasion that began in February 2022 and the behavior of Russian authorities toward the population.

Since then, she has become the target of political and legal persecution. In 2023, she was fined for “spreading false information” about state decisions, and in August 2025, she received another fine of 45,000 rubles for violating rules imposed on “foreign agents.”

International political persecution

Troyanova’s case highlights the escalation of repression against Russian public figures who express critical positions toward the Kremlin. Human rights organizations point out that legislation on “extremism” and “foreign agents” has been systematically used to silence opponents and intimidate dissenting voices.

The actress could face imprisonment and trial if detained in countries that maintain judicial cooperation with Russia. However, her exact location has not yet been disclosed, and she remains out of reach of Russian authorities.

Sources and images: Investigative Committee of Russia (IC RF) | Izvestia | Instagram @troyanovayana. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.

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