Russia faces domestic tensions and intelligence warnings ahead of autumn elections

Russian authorities are intensifying pre-election measures ahead of parliamentary voting next month. The anti-war party Yabloko was banned, and prominent politician Lev Shlosberg received an 11-year prison sentence, marking a sharp crackdown on political opposition.

At the same time, public fears of a new military draft are escalating due to heavy casualties in Ukraine. Reports indicate that some citizens are selling assets and preparing to leave the country. Observers note that these developments coincide with Russia's historical "Black August," a period often marked by late-summer instability.

Concurrently, analysts highlight structural uncertainties over President Vladimir Putin's lack of a clear succession plan. Internationally, Western intelligence assessments suggest Moscow may test NATO's cohesion in coming years through cyberattacks, hybrid tactics, or limited military incursions into member states.

Sources: Avaz, Danas, Index, Klix, Vijesti