A scandal is brewing in Russia over the mass distribution of fake combat awards. According to Ukrainian intelligence, the situation regarding merits on the front lines has completely spiraled out of control. This is reported by RBC-Ukraine, citing a material from the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine.
Medals on Marketplaces
Those who have not signed a contract with the Russian Ministry of Defense have found a new way to assert themselves — buying medals online. On marketplaces, any civilian can purchase copies of combat orders that are indistinguishable from the originals. Sellers offer awards from the PMC "Wagner" and the Russian Ministry of Defense, as well as their own orders created by private individuals and public organizations.
"New Year Trees" of Medals
As a result, drivers of humanitarian missions walk around in camouflage, draped in "stars of heroes," like New Year trees. Russians themselves admit that they attach this junk to themselves without shame, because "they just want more medals".
Absurd Situations in Schools and Universities
This avalanche of fake heroes has spawned numerous absurd situations. Scammers with purchased awards are mass-visiting schools and universities, telling young people fabricated "stories of feats" full of nonsense.
Light Fines and Lack of Control
It is impossible to verify closed award orders from the Ministry of Defense and the FSB, so Russians with fake medals are often believed at their word. The boldest take advantage of this, quietly slipping into government offices, taking photos with deputies, and demanding money and benefits for themselves.
It is worth noting that currently in the Russian Federation, the fine for wearing fakes is only 1000–1500 rubles — the price of a pack of dumplings.
Cult of the "New Elite" and Plundering the Population
While the Kremlin tries to build a cult of the "new elite," Russia is rapidly being flooded by a wave of fake "decorated individuals" who are successfully robbing and deceiving their own naive population.