Russian charity chief says she will step down after criticism of war

Lidia Moniava, founder and director of the Russian charity Lighthouse House, says she will step down after criminal proceedings were opened against her over criticism of the war in Ukraine.

In a message published on social media by her friends, Moniava said she had several months to finish her work and organize the charity so it could continue without her. She said she expected to leave as director after the investigation, which she believes could lead to a prison sentence of five to 10 years.

"I am very worried that my criminal case could negatively affect Lighthouse House and that people will help less. I ask everyone, if possible, not to abandon Lighthouse House and to donate money so the center can continue operating," the message said.

“

I have several months to finish things and try to organize everything so that Lighthouse House can work without me. I will have to leave my position as director.

Lighthouse House cares for more than 1,000 patients and has 400 employees. Moniava, who had worked with various charities since 2008, founded the organization in 2018 to help children with cancer and blood disorders.

She was detained and questioned on Sept. 2 on accusations of spreading "false" information about the army. Her defense says the case relates to a Telegram message published a year after the war in Ukraine began, in which she mourned innocent victims of the conflict.

“

I am very worried that my criminal case could negatively affect Lighthouse House and that people will help less. I ask everyone, if possible, not to abandon Lighthouse House and to donate money so the center can continue operating.