Kremlin intensifies domestic control as security and succession concerns grow

Russian authorities are increasing political pressure ahead of September's parliamentary elections, banning the anti-war Yabloko party and sentencing politician Lev Shlosberg to 11 years in prison. This domestic crackdown coincides with growing public anxiety over a potential post-election draft, as heavy casualty reports in Ukraine prompt some citizens to sell property and prepare to leave the country.

These developments align with Russia's historical "Black August" pattern of late-summer instability. Concurrently, analysts point to unresolved long-term challenges, notably the lack of a clear succession strategy for 73-year-old President Vladimir Putin. On the international stage, Western intelligence agencies assess that Moscow may attempt to test NATO's unity in coming years through hybrid tactics, cyberattacks, or limited military incursions.

Sources: Avaz, Danas, Index, Klix, Vijesti