Support The Moscow Times!

Zolotov vs. Navalny Showdown, in Memes

Lentach / Vkontakte

On Tuesday, the head of Russia's National Guard, Viktor Zolotov, challenged opposition politician Alexei Navalny to a fight over an anti-corruption video alleging state corruption.

“I’m simply challenging you to combat,” Zolotov said in the video message. “I promise to turn you into a juicy pounded steak in a few minutes.”

The Russian internet was quick to react to the latest incident of bizarre statecraft in the country.


Here are our favorites:

"Navalny vs. Zolotov. The 21st century versus 1937... a law-abiding citizen versus a thieving doormat." 

Some compared the showdown to the upcoming fight between Connor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov.

A cheeky Navalny running from riot police.

"I challenge you to a duel! Defend yourself!"

Some compared the physical characteristics of the two politicians.

Others noted the striking resemblance between President Vladimir Putin and Zolotov.

"That moment when you can't respond from your main account but you have a fake."


										 					Lentach / Vkontakte
Lentach / Vkontakte

This caricature notes that Zolotov's challenge came at a time when Navalny is behind bars and can't respond.

https://twitter.com/Sergey_Elkin/status/1039810119465398272

… we have a small favor to ask.

As you may have heard, The Moscow Times, an independent news source for over 30 years, has been unjustly branded as a "foreign agent" by the Russian government. This blatant attempt to silence our voice is a direct assault on the integrity of journalism and the values we hold dear.

We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. Our commitment to providing accurate and unbiased reporting on Russia remains unshaken. But we need your help to continue our critical mission.

Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just 2. It's quick to set up, and you can be confident that you're making a significant impact every month by supporting open, independent journalism. Thank you.

Continue

Read more