A Russian blogger explains the blocking of Telegram: the signal for crisis, unpopular measures and the risk of social upheaval
A well-known Russian blogger warns that the blocking of Telegram by the Russian authorities is a sign that unpopular measures are being prepared, which could generate social tensions, and that Russia is facing a deep economic crisis.
Maksim Kalashnikov anticipates tough economic measures in Russia. PHOTO: Dialogue
Maksim Kalashnikov, known for his pro-Kremlin positions and close to former military leader Igor Strelkov, warns that the blocking of the Telegram application in Russia could be a signal that the authorities are preparing for unpopular economic measures and a possible social explosion, amid the economic crisis and prolonged war, according to dialog.ua.
Blocking Telegram and the economic crisis
Maksim Kalashnikov claims that blocking Telegram is not only a measure to control communications, but also an indication that the government is preparing unpopular economic measures, fearing possible social unrest. According to him, the severe economic crisis in which Russia is forcing the authorities to take risky decisions.
“We have a hole in the budget as the war drags on, something we warned about. The war should not have been allowed to drag on… In addition to the planned indicators, there are many other expenses to support state corporations and other structures. All of these are growing at an alarming rate. Oil and gas revenues are falling. Tax increases have had no effect.”says Maksim Kalashnikov.
Two dangerous measures
According to Kalashnikov, the Kremlin could take two very unpopular measures to stop the collapse of the economy and continue the war:
1. Freezing the population's bank deposits, possibly turning them into government bonds.
2. The obligation of employees in the budgetary sector to direct a part of the salary to the financing of the war, in the form of state bonds.
The blogger also explains the connection between these measures and the blocking of Telegram, saying that the authorities are afraid of the social backlash.
“Rumours are now circulating that people's deposits in banks could be converted into bonds. It is very dangerous! Politically and socially dangerous. And now I see rumors spreading that budget workers and employees of law enforcement agencies may be forced to receive 10-15% of their salary in the form of state bonds. This is also an extremely risky step. Excesses can occur. Stopping or not stopping Telegram will not save you such excesses”concludes Maksim Kalashnikov.
