Russia suppressing public discontent of mobilized soldiers' wives - British intelligence
Russia suppressing public discontent of mobilized soldiers' wives (photo: Getty Images)
The Russian authorities are likely trying to suppress public dissent by the wives of Russian soldiers, including through bribery or discrediting them on the Internet, reveals British intelligence.
"Research by independent Russia media outlets and comments by protesting wives themselves suggest that, in recent weeks, the authorities have likely offered increased cash payments to families in return for them refraining from protest," the report states.
According to the intelligence, on November 27, 2023, one of the prominent online groups of wives of Russian mobilized soldiers published a manifesto against "indefinite mobilization." Later, a "fake" warning label was pinned to the group. This was probably done at the suggestion of pro-Kremlin actors.
"The authorities are likely particularly sensitive to any protests relating to those citizens mobilized in September 2022, who have now been at the front line for over a year," the intelligence adds.
Support for the war among Russians
According to the independent Levada Center, support among Russians for the war against Ukraine has remained steadily high since February last year. In September, 73% approved the invasion of Ukraine.
On November 7, the wives of Russian terrorists held the first public street protest in Moscow after the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The protesters gathered in the central Theater Square but were quickly dispersed by police.
