Victoria Bonya, a Monaco-based Russian influencer known for lifestyle content, delivered a surprising 18-minute Instagram critique addressing Vladimir Putin and the state of Russia. In her video, she warned of public frustration, highlighting issues such as digital censorship, regional disasters, and economic decline, asserting that the population is reaching a breaking point. Her message, which resonated with over 26 million viewers, marked a rare moment of open criticism against the Kremlin from a celebrity observer, sparking further conversations about rising discontent.

Despite her support for Putin's strength as a leader, Bonya criticized top officials for hiding the true extent of Russia's problems, claiming this creates a dangerous situation where the population is 'compressed like a spring' and may 'snap' in the future. Her outspoken remarks have garnered mixed reactions: some analysts believe she is deepening opposition discourse and hinting at a brewing pre-revolutionary mood, while others suggest she might inadvertently be aiding Kremlin narratives by framing her criticisms as warnings rather than direct challenges. The Kremlin has acknowledged her concerns, yet her personal risk remains high, as she has publicly expressed fear of repercussions, despite residing abroad.