Zyuganov decries huge utility bill, calling it 'absolutely abnormal'

The leader of Russia's Communist Party, Gennady Zyuganov, has voiced strong criticism over the rising cost of utilities after receiving a bill of nearly 30,000 rubles. In an interview with the newspaper Vedomosti, Zyuganov described the sum as "absolutely abnormal" and said that even he, as a high-status individual, finds it difficult to pay such an amount.

Zyuganov used the occasion to discuss broader economic and political issues, asserting that high interest rates should not be treated as a universal solution to problems, and that the increase in the retirement age was a mistake. He also praised what he called President Putin's most ingenious creation — the BRICS and SCO organisations — and claimed that former President Donald Trump could only be negotiated with until his next press conference.

Beyond the utility bill, Zyuganov reflected on history and his family's experience, attributing to the Soviet era the broad access to free higher education that allowed his siblings to study. He denounced the 1990s privatisation as a criminal plunder led by Anatoly Chubais and suggested that the current authorities lack decisive action.

Critics on social media quickly rebuffed Zyuganov’s remarks, accusing him of hypocrisy and noting that his complaints do little to challenge the very policies the Communist Party is part of in the State Duma. Some commenters questioned his role in parliament, suggesting that if he finds conditions unbearable, he should use his influence to change them rather than simply complain.

Zyuganov’s interview has sparked renewed debate about the cost of living in Russia and the political inaction that many Russians perceive from their elected officials. The utility bill revelation comes amid a broader public discussion about inflation and household expenses.