State Duma deputy Yana Lantratova became the leading candidate to serve as Russia’s federal human rights commissioner, Meduza reported, citing sources.
The incumbent ombudsman, Tatyana Moskalkova, had served two terms and could not legally remain in the position.
According to Meduza, Lantratova’s candidacy had support inside the presidential administration and was promoted by filmmaker Nikita Mikhalkov.
Lantratova is known for conservative initiatives and for supporting a number of restrictive legislative measures. Meduza also recalled her involvement in the case of a child taken from occupied Kherson region by the family of State Duma deputy Sergei Mironov.
At the time of publication, the State Duma had not made a formal decision; Meduza was reporting an agreed candidacy rather than a completed appointment.
The outlet’s prediction was later borne out: the State Duma elected Lantratova human rights commissioner on May 14.
The information about lobbying for Lantratova’s candidacy is original reporting by Meduza. Original publication:
https://meduza.io/feature/2026/05/08/v-rossii-budet-novyy-ombudsmen-eto-yana-lantratova-ee-naznachenie-lobbiroval-nikita-mihalkov-uznala-meduza