A Pro-Kremlin lawyer turns on Putin in a rare and public break from loyalty, sharply condemning the war in Ukraine and calling for the president to resign. Ilya Remeslo, 42, known for defending the Kremlin and attacking its critics, posted to his 90,000 Telegram followers a message titled “Five reasons why I stopped supporting Vladimir Putin.” In it, he described Putin as an illegitimate leader, criticized the handling of the Ukraine conflict, and warned that Russia’s political system is at risk of collapse.
Remeslo did not hold back. Speaking from St. Petersburg, he said Putin “should resign and be put on trial as a war criminal.” He condemned the leadership for economic decline, restrictions on internet access, and the human cost of the war. “This man has destroyed everything he could lay his hands on. The country is literally falling apart,” he wrote.
The comments are unusual in Russia, where even outspoken pro-war commentators, often called Z-bloggers, rarely challenge Putin directly or question the legitimacy of the Ukraine campaign. Analysts and observers were stunned by the public nature of Remeslo’s remarks. Some suggested his account could have been hacked or that the move was part of a broader political strategy. Remeslo dismissed these claims, insisting his statements were his own. “I am just speaking the truth,” he said, adding that many others privately share similar doubts.
Remeslo’s background makes the break even more striking. He previously served on a Kremlin-linked advisory body and actively campaigned against government critics, including the late opposition leader Alexei Navalny. His sudden reversal has left both pro-government and opposition figures questioning the motives and implications. Leonid Volkov, a close Navalny ally, noted that the statements go far beyond what authorities usually tolerate, highlighting the personal risks Remeslo faces.
The outburst comes at a time of growing strain in Russia. Public frustration over internet disruptions and fatigue with the ongoing Ukraine war are becoming more visible. Despite this, the Kremlin maintains tight control over politics and retains strong cohesion among elites.
Remeslo acknowledged the danger of his position, warning he could face prosecution, but said he was ready to face consequences. “The time has come to break this cycle and speak out,” he said, emphasizing a sense of responsibility after years of supporting the system.
The episode signals cracks in the veneer of unanimous support around Putin and raises questions about the limits of dissent among Russia’s former loyalists. Whether it represents an isolated act of conscience or a growing undercurrent of frustration, it stands as a rare example of public defiance from someone once firmly inside the Kremlin fold.
