The Complex Reality of Russians' Reception of Wagner Rebels

The recent mutiny by the Wagner Group in Rostov-on-Don, Russia, initially appeared to have garnered support from locals, with scenes of residents cheering for the mercenaries. However, interviews with residents and sociological experts reveal that much of the support was passive rather than active. Many citizens panicked and tried to flee the city when Prigozhin announced his "march of justice" to Moscow. While some expressed sympathy for Prigozhin, believing he was not afraid to speak the truth, others saw him as a charlatan. The mutiny was perceived as a betrayal and a threat to stability, leading to a rapid decline in Prigozhin's approval ratings.