Russian Soldier Alexander Lunin Threatens Kremlin Mutiny in Video Viewed 3.5 Million Times
Updated
Updated · Meduza · Jun 25
Russian Soldier Alexander Lunin Threatens Kremlin Mutiny in Video Viewed 3.5 Million Times
3 articles · Updated · Meduza · Jun 25
Summary
Alexander Lunin said disgruntled military and security officials asked him to warn Vladimir Putin that troops could "turn weapons against the Kremlin" unless the president grants him a live on-air meeting.
In the viral video, Lunin said soldiers are being tortured, extorted and dumped into pits by their own commanders for refusing "suicidal orders" or surrendering money, with some then listed as missing.
A separate video sharpened the threat: Lunin said any harm to him or his family would signal action to begin, while insisting he is only a messenger and would identify the officials involved only to Putin live.
Within four hours, the post drew more than 3.5 million Instagram views and 125,000 likes, amplifying an unusually public challenge from a veteran of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
A lone commander threatens Putin with an army revolt. Is this a genuine coup or a carefully laid Kremlin trap?
After Prigozhin's failed rebellion, could this new military ultimatum finally shatter Putin's grip on power?
Russian Military Morale Crisis: Aleksandr Lunin’s Televised Ultimatum and the Kremlin’s Silent Response (June 2026)
Overview
On June 25, 2026, Russian military veteran Aleksandr Lunin issued a bold ultimatum to President Putin, demanding a live, televised audience to reveal the truth about the Ukraine conflict and warning that the military could turn against the Kremlin if ignored. Lunin’s explosive video quickly went viral, sparking widespread discussion amid the war’s heavy toll on Russia’s military and internal power struggles. Security officials visited Lunin, showing high-level awareness and unofficial engagement with his challenge, while state media stayed silent. This situation highlights growing internal tensions and the fragility of Russia’s power structure during the ongoing conflict.