Local officials from Russia’s ruling United Russia party sparked outrage by gifting meat grinders to mothers of soldiers killed in Ukraine. The incident, which occurred in the northern Murmansk region, coincided with International Women's Day. The choice of gift ignited controversy due to the word "myasorubka," which, like in English, can also mean "meat grinder," drawing parallels to the alleged disregard for soldiers' lives on the frontline.
Photos posted by the United Russia party showed officials smiling as they handed over flowers and boxed meat grinders. Mayor Maxim Chengayev, who participated in the presentation, explained that the inclusion of meat grinders was not initially planned.
"One woman asked for it and we of course could not say no" – Maxim Chengayev
Critics have accused Russia of employing a brutal military strategy often referred to as a "meat grinder." This tactic involves sending small groups of soldiers into battle in continuous waves, risking high casualties, to eventually overpower Ukrainian forces. The grim metaphor underscores accusations that Russian military operations prioritize achieving objectives over preserving soldiers' lives.
The Russian website Mediazona and the BBC’s Russian service recently reported identifying the names of 91,000 Russian soldiers killed in the conflict. However, independent media suggest the actual toll is "considerably higher." Russia has rarely disclosed its losses, keeping the true figures shrouded in mystery.
In contrast, Ukrainian military casualties also paint a grim picture. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated in February that over 46,000 Ukrainian soldiers had died, with around 380,000 wounded. Media reports based on Western sources estimate Ukrainian military deaths range between 50,000 and 100,000.
The local branch of the United Russia party in Polyarniye Zori defended itself against the backlash, dismissing critics for making "callous and provocative interpretations" of their actions. The controversy highlights the sensitive nature of the ongoing conflict and the perceived insensitivity of the gifts presented to grieving families.