Public Figures in Russia Appeal to President Putin on Social and Economic Issues
Several prominent public figures in Russia have recently posted video appeals directly to President Vladimir Putin, raising a range of social and economic concerns. The Kremlin has acknowledged these appeals, stating that authorities are working on the issues mentioned.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov responded that authorities had seen the video appeals. He described the issues raised as "very significant" and stated that authorities were already working to address them.
Viktoria Bonya's Appeal
Blogger and influencer Viktoria Bonya posted an 18-minute video appeal to President Vladimir Putin. Multiple sources reported the video received over 24 million views within two days, with one source specifying 24.1 million views and over 1 million likes.
In the video, Bonya stated that many people in Russia are afraid to speak about problems. She listed several key issues, including:
- Flooding in Dagestan.
- Oil pollution, with some sources specifying pollution on the Black Sea coast.
- Livestock culling in Siberia.
- Internet shutdowns or restrictions.
- Rising prices.
- Tax burdens on small businesses.
"People are screaming out loud right now. They've been stripped of their last resources and they continue to lose more. Businesses are dying," Bonya was quoted as saying. She also mentioned that searches for "how to leave Russia" are currently popular.
Bonya stated she is not a member of the political opposition and was not paid to record the appeal. She said her goal was to "break through" a perceived wall between the president and ordinary people.
Additional Public Statements
Blogger Aiza's Criticism
Blogger Aiza (Aiza Dolmatova) posted an eight-minute video criticizing corruption among lawmakers, rising taxes, and increasing utility tariffs. Some reports indicated she suggested President Putin might not be fully aware of the situation.
She later deleted the video, stating she had received threats and significant media attention, adding that she was "very scared."
Actor Ivan Okhlobystin's Comments
Actor Ivan Okhlobystin, who has previously expressed support for government actions, commented on restrictions affecting internet and foreign social media platforms. He described these restrictions as "a huge mistake" and questioned efforts to limit information access.
"If they want to bring us back to the U.S.S.R., then a time machine would need to be built first," he was quoted as saying.
Context
Multiple sources note that public criticism of the government or its policies in Russia can lead to prosecution and blacklisting.
The state polling agency VTsIOM reported that President Putin's approval rating is 67.8%. Multiple sources described this as the lowest level since February 2022, with some specifying the context as the military action in Ukraine. Some reports linked the rating decline to factors including internet restrictions, messaging app restrictions, and price increases.