Rising repression and mobilization fears grip Russia ahead of elections

As Russia prepares for September's parliamentary elections, political repression and public anxiety are escalating. Russian authorities recently banned Yabloko, the country's sole remaining legal anti-war opposition party, while politician Lev Shlosberg received an 11-year prison sentence.

Concerns over potential post-election military conscription have led some citizens to liquidate assets and plan departures, coinciding with the late-summer period historically known as "Black August." Beyond immediate election tensions, analysts point to long-term risks regarding succession for 73-year-old President Vladimir Putin within a highly personalized system. Internationally, US intelligence assessments warn Moscow could stage hybrid attacks or limited incursions to test NATO unity in the coming years.

Sources: Avaz, Danas, Index, Klix, Vijesti