Kremlin tightens domestic control as concerns grow over mobilization and future stability

The Kremlin has intensified domestic political restrictions ahead of September's parliamentary elections, banning the anti-war Yabloko party and sentencing politician Lev Shlosberg to 11 years in prison. At the same time, public fears of a new military mobilization after the vote have led some citizens to sell property and plan departures, coinciding with late-summer domestic tensions historically referred to as "Black August."

Uncertainty also surrounds long-term leadership stability, as 73-year-old President Vladimir Putin has not outlined a clear succession plan. Internationally, Western intelligence assessments indicate Moscow could attempt to test NATO cohesion over the coming years through hybrid actions, cyberattacks, or limited military incursions.

Sources: Avaz, Danas, Index, Klix, Vijesti