Sergei Maslov

Sergei Maslov is a resident of Bryansk, a former serviceman, lawyer, and blogger. He regularly criticized the governor of the Bryansk Region. A case was opened against him for defaming the governor’s father, a veteran of the Great Patriotic War. In 2021, Maslov was fined for 1 million rubles. On 13 January 2023, the court granted the bailiff’s motion to replace the fine with community service due to non-payment and sentenced Maslov to 320 hours of compulsory community service.

Later, a case was opened against Maslov, himself a retiree, for defaming the governor himself and insulting a veteran. He was released under a pledge not to leave the area. On 18 April 2025, Maslov was taken into custody — according to the press release, for violating the conditions of his pretrial release twice. In June, a jury began hearings on Maslov’s case. On 8 October, the jury acquitted him, and Maslov was released from custody. On 24 December 2025, the appellate court overturned the acquittal and returned the case to the court of first instance.