Khinshtein introduced Kalutskikh at a regional government meeting, according to Novaya Gazeta Europe. The governor described the new ombudsman as a career military officer and reserve colonel, a graduate of the Ryazan Airborne Forces School, who has taken part in combat operations, holds military decorations and is active in the regional veterans' association.
Kalutskikh currently serves as deputy chairman of the regional Association of Veterans of the "SVO" — the official Russian abbreviation for the war in Ukraine. He also took part in an education and personnel program for war participants and "veterans" called "Kursk. Heroes."
The ombudsman post was established on September 16 by a decree signed by Khinshtein. Under the document, the ombudsman works on a voluntary basis, reports to the governor and is tasked with protecting the rights of war participants and their families. The officeholder may request documents from government bodies and propose changes to regional legislation.
Khinshtein said Kursk Region was the first region to establish the position on a permanent basis. The appointment was also reported by Ekho and TV Rain.