Supporters Rally for Imprisoned Separatist Leader in Moscow
The informal atmosphere was palpable as hundreds of supporters gathered in a Moscow hotel to back their man, Igor Girkin. Known for his outspoken criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin and his handling of the Ukraine conflict, Girkin currently finds himself behind bars, charged with public calls for extremism.
Yet, undeterred, his dedicated supporters gathered to express their admiration and push for his release. Among them were numerous women, elderly individuals, and military veterans—many with T-shirts bearing Girkin's face and the slogan "Freedom for Strelkov," his pseudonym.
Girkin, famous for commanding separatists in the internationally unrecognized Donetsk People's Republic during the Kremlin-backed uprising in eastern Ukraine in 2014, is an advocate for the Russian offensive in Ukraine. However, he heavily criticizes the country's war strategy as insufficiently aggressive.
The 52-year-old, currently incarcerated since his July arrest, announced his surprise presidential bid in August—justifying his decision as a result of his perceived competence in military matters surpassing that of the sitting president.
Supporter Confidence
Mihail Filippov, a supporter who had traveled from Novosibirsk, expressed confidence in Girkin's military abilities, asserting that the former separatist leader would execute his role as Russia's commander-in-chief flawlessly and would "not be fooled." Former comrade-in-arms Yevgeny Skripnik also shared support, stating that many soldiers on the front were in favor of Girkin.
However, the organizers of the meeting admit that Girkin's candidacy may not be acknowledged or accepted. Co-organizer Mikhail Polnykov explained that the true purpose of the rally was to encourage unity among comrades-in-arms ahead of the uprising, rather than to promote a presidential bid.
Additional Insights
Controversy surrounding Girkin's imprisonment has been met with criticism from various international sources. His imprisonment was confirmed in January 2025, when a Moscow court sentenced him to four years in prison[1][4]. Despite ongoing legal proceedings, Girkin has expressed a desire to join Russian troops invading Ukraine[1].
Sources
Though Girkin's presidential bid is questionable due to his incarceration, his loyal supporters continue to advocate for his freedom and potential presidency. As tensions between Russia and Ukraine remain high, criticism of Putin's handling of the conflict has reached fever pitch. Supporters of Girkin argue that his release and subsequent election would bring a needed change in direction to Russian foreign policy.
