Tankies have redefined a wide variety of words in ways that are completely unrecognizable to other speakers of their languages. Empire and imperialism are prominent examples. So I suspect, if you understood the way he’s using the word, the statement would be accurate. But of course, one also needs to acknowledge that their definitions are carefully crafted for political ends, including the deception of unsuspecting people.

On the other hand, if you aren’t at least vaguely familiar with what they’re talking about, it can also make them appear to be complete lunatics.