Wagner Group financier Yevgeny Prigozhin and several Russian
milbloggers continue to debate the appropriateness of criticism of
Russian war efforts as they react to a proposed amendment to Russia’s
Criminal Code which would increase punishments for “discrediting” the
war in Ukraine. Prigozhin on March 1 defended his statements
made earlier that day defending criticism of the war effort. Prigozhin
claimed that Russians should have the right to criticize Russian
commanders and strategists, including himself, but not to criticize or
“discredit” ordinary soldiers.[31] Russian milblogger Yuri Kotyenok
defended restrictions on “discreditation attempts,” arguing that
criticism of Russian soldiers of all levels — from soldier to supreme
commander — is like shooting them in the back. Kotyenok conceded that
some criticism is necessary but said that it must be made carefully and
in a limited way. ...Former Russian officer (and avid critic of
Russian President Vladimir Putin) Igor Girkin feigned repentance on
March 2 and mockingly instructed his users “not” to make statements
calling Russian leadership “illiterate, irresponsible mediocrities” and
telling them to refer to major failures as victories, offering as an
example the “alternative successes” in Vuhledar.[33] [Igor have normal brain: Rooski lose over 100 tanks in Vuhledar. Great success pause, pause, pause, NOT.]