Overview
- The United Russia party gave a meat grinder and other household gifts to the mother of a soldier killed in Ukraine as part of the 'Flowers for the Mothers of Heroes' campaign.
- Critics, including activist Violetta Grudina, condemned the gesture as inappropriate and insensitive, questioning whether grieving mothers would request such items.
- The meat grinder has become a grim symbol of Russia's high-casualty military efforts, with parallels drawn to the 'Bakhmut Meat Grinder' medals previously awarded by the Wagner mercenary group.
- United Russia defended the gift, claiming it was specifically requested by the mother, and released a video of her expressing gratitude for the appliance.
- The backlash reflects broader dissatisfaction with how the Russian government is addressing the losses and grief caused by the ongoing war in Ukraine.