Kremlin tightens domestic control ahead of September elections

Russian authorities are intensifying domestic controls ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections, including banning opposition movements and sentencing prominent Yabloko party figure Lev Schlosberg to 11 years in prison. The pre-election crackdown coincides with heightened public anxiety over potential post-poll military mobilization, prompting some citizens to prepare for departure amidst heavy war casualties in Ukraine.

Analysts note that these tensions align with Russia's historical "Black August" period of late-summer instability. Questions also remain over long-term governance, as President Vladimir Putin, 73, has established no clear succession framework. Internationally, Moscow continues to monitor snap elections in Serbia, warning of potential "color revolution" scenarios in the region.

Sources: Avaz, Danas, Klix, N1, Vijesti