That's why calling them communists or even Marxist-Leninists would be a bad idea. However, "Tankie," describes exactly what's wrong with them: They're authoritarian bootlickers that have no place amongst people who want any form of liberation, or care about social issues in any way. If somebody fits the definition of a Tankie, they have failed in their quest to make a better world, instead embracing might makes right and dogmatic faith in elites to rule in the best interests of the workers.

They have a level of certainty in the decisions of a state that no one should have. They're cult like in their faith that their strategy will work, that ignoring and downplaying the sins of these countries is worth it. Sacrificing reality is worth it if you believe only the party can deliver communism.