Kremlin tightens control amid election preps and NATO security concerns

Russian authorities are increasing domestic political restrictions ahead of September's parliamentary elections, prohibiting the anti-war Yabloko party and handing politician Lev Shlosberg an 11-year prison sentence. Concurrently, public anxiety over a potential second military draft after the vote has prompted some citizens to sell property and plan foreign departures, aligning with historical late-summer domestic stress often termed "Black August."

Long-term political stability also remains uncertain, as 73-year-old President Vladimir Putin has not designated a successor. Internationally, Western intelligence reports indicate Moscow could seek to test NATO cohesion in coming years using hybrid tactics, cyber operations, or targeted military incursions.

Sources: Avaz, Danas, Index, Klix, Vijesti