Kremlin tightens political control and warns of regional shifts ahead of elections

Russian authorities are increasing domestic political pressure and monitoring regional dynamics ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections. The government recently banned Yabloko, the country's last official anti-war political party, while opposition politician Lev Schlosberg received an 11-year prison sentence.

Concurrently, public anxiety over potential military conscription has grown following heavy battlefield losses in Ukraine, leading some residents to sell property and plan departures. Analysts highlight recurring late-summer political volatility—often termed "Black August"—alongside questions regarding succession plans for 73-year-old President Vladimir Putin.

Beyond its borders, Moscow has repeatedly warned of potential Western-backed "color revolutions" surrounding Serbia's forthcoming parliamentary vote, aiming to safeguard its influence in the Balkans.

Sources: Avaz, Danas, Klix, N1, Vijesti