Russia crackdowns on opposition and faces succession questions ahead of elections

Ahead of September's parliamentary elections, Russian authorities have intensified domestic crackdowns by banning Yabloko, the country's last legal anti-war opposition party, and sentencing senior figure Lev Shlosberg to 11 years in prison. The crackdown coincides with heightened public anxiety during Russia's historically turbulent "Black August" period, driven by widespread fears of post-election military conscription that have led some residents to sell property and plan departures.

Simultaneously, analysts highlight unresolved leadership succession challenges for 73-year-old President Vladimir Putin, noting that the regime lacks an established transition plan. Internationally, U.S. intelligence assessments suggest Moscow may execute hybrid attacks or limited incursions in the coming years to evaluate NATO's collective defense resolve.

Sources: Avaz, Danas, Index, Klix, Vijesti