Russian Pro-Kremlin Blogger Ilya Remeslo Detained Amid Military Fake News Investigation

Russian blogger Ilya Remeslo, previously known for his pro-Kremlin stance and denunciations of opposition figures, has been placed in pre-trial detention at Moscow's SIZO No. 7, also known as "Kapotnya," following psychiatric evaluation amid an investigation into alleged "fake news" about the Russian military.

Remeslo underwent a forensic psychiatric examination at the Serbsky Institute starting in late July. The results of this evaluation have not been publicly disclosed. He is expected to remain in detention until at least September 16, while the legal proceedings initiated against him continue at the Basmanny District Court in Moscow. The charges carry a potential sentence of up to ten years' imprisonment.

From Kremlin Supporter to Vocal Critic

Formerly a member of Russia’s Public Chamber, Remeslo gained recognition as a staunch supporter of the Kremlin, often targeting opposition activists and figures such as Alexei Navalny and the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK). His denunciations contributed to multiple legal cases against Navalny, including investigations into alleged campaign donation fraud and insults to Russian veterans.

However, in March 2026, Remeslo shocked observers by publicly condemning President Vladimir Putin and the war in Ukraine via his Telegram channel. He accused Putin of usurping power, described him as an illegitimate president, and labeled him a "war criminal and thief."

"I do not renounce my previous words and consider myself the head of Russia’s opposition movement," Remeslo stated in an interview following his release from a psychiatric hospital.

Shortly after this outspoken criticism, Remeslo was involuntarily hospitalized in a psychiatric facility—an action reportedly influenced by his sister. Following discharge, he reaffirmed his critical stance towards Russian authorities in an interview and expressed intentions to continue his opposition activities. Portions of this interview were later used as evidence in the criminal case against him.

Remeslo was detained in mid-July in Saint Petersburg and subsequently sent for medical examination at the Serbsky Institute, a facility historically associated with forensic psychiatric assessments. Notably, during the Soviet era, the institute was infamous for its role in punitive psychiatry, often diagnosing dissidents with fabricated conditions such as "sluggish schizophrenia." Victims of the institute’s past practices included prominent regime critics like Vladimir Bukovsky and Valeriya Novodvorskaya.

The current investigation into Remeslo centers on allegations of spreading false information about the Russian armed forces, reflecting the state's ongoing crackdown on dissent and critical voices amid the conflict in Ukraine.