Russian soldiers standing outside the US Capitol as military aircraft and helicopters circle the structure.
What might sound like the plot of a World War III apocalyptic movie is only the disturbing November page in a bizarre 2024 calendar put up for sale by Russia’s State Security Service (FSB), heir to the Soviet-era KGB.
Understandably, many Americans expressed their concerns about this image on social media, with some speculating that Russia would seek to strike the US in retaliation for Ukraine.
This 2024 FSB calendar is… interesting pic.twitter.com/4YdHISI310
— Jonny Tickle (@jonnytickle) December 11, 2023
“Good luck for November 2024, America…” Ian Garner, a Russian propaganda expert, joked on X.
“Have you seen this FSB calendar? Putin is not our friend. Stop playing into his hands”, another user tweeted mentioning House Speaker Mike Johnson, who has so far refused to approve a new military aid package for Ukraine.
The $50 artwork also features Vladimir Putin – who served as head of the FSB from 1998 to 1999 – with a flag decorating his upper arm and huge biceps barely restrained by his Z shirt, a symbol employed in its battle with Ukraine. Other months have pictures that bring back memories of World War II, like Russian troops cuddling kittens and monkeys as well as soldiers comforting women and children.
One of the most potent and respected agencies in Russia, the FSB is often involved in counterintelligence, counterterrorism, criminal investigations of crimes against the state, border security, and anti-dissident activities both domestically and internationally.
