Kathrine Frich
Speaking out against the Kremlin has long carried serious risks in Russia, even for those who once stood firmly on its side.
Critics have faced pressure, legal trouble and, in some cases, sudden disappearance from public life.
Now, a new case is raising eyebrows over how quickly things can change.
Sudden shift
Ilia Remeslo, previously known for supporting the Kremlin and opposing the Russian opposition, published a string of posts attacking Putin.
According to Digi24, he described the war in Ukraine as “absolutely hopeless” and criticised censorship and the country’s leadership.
He also pointed to what he saw as a lack of respect for citizens and excessive luxury among those in power.
Backlash begins
The reaction from pro-Kremlin figures was swift.
Chechen commander Apti Alaudinov said the comments came “in one of the most difficult moments for the country,” adding they caused “a slight repulsion.”
The criticism highlighted how unusual Remeslo’s statements were within pro-government circles.
Since those posts, there has been a significant development in the case.
According to Russian outlets including Fontanka and Baza, Remeslo was admitted to a psychiatric hospital in St. Petersburg on March 19.
He is reportedly being treated at Municipal Psychiatric Hospital No. 3.
Inside the clinic
Baza reported that he is being held in a ward that treats men experiencing first-time psychotic symptoms.
The unit is said to specialise in conditions such as hallucinations, disordered thinking and incoherent speech.
Hospital staff confirmed to Fontanka that a patient with the same name had been admitted and could receive parcels on certain days.
Journalist Alexander Pliushchev, who interviewed Remeslo on March 18, said the blogger stopped responding to messages and calls shortly afterwards.
In the interview, Remeslo had stated that he did not plan to leave Russia.
Sources: Digi24, Fontanka, Baza
