Kremlin faces internal strain as security, economic, and conscription pressures mount

A fatal attack in central Moscow targeting General Alexander Chaiko has escalated domestic security concerns, leading some Kremlin allies to question the state's ability to protect high-ranking military officials. In response to mounting dissent, President Vladimir Putin enacted measures allowing authorities to freeze assets, block bank accounts, and invalidate passports of exiled critics—a move opposition figures view as an attempt to intimidate populations at home and abroad.

Concurrently, Russia faces severe military recruitment shortfalls despite offering unprecedented financial incentives to sign contracts. The activation of a centralized electronic draft registry, alongside fears of forced mobilization, has prompted many draft-eligible citizens to flee the country. Additionally, broader economic strains from the war are increasingly affecting affluent urban centers, gradually eroding confidence in the regime's stability.

Sources: Český rozhlas Plus, Deník N, Ekonomický deník, Hospodářské noviny, Seznam Zprávy.