Russia faces domestic unrest and security concerns ahead of elections

Russian authorities have intensified domestic controls ahead of September's parliamentary elections, banning the anti-war Yabloko party and sentencing politician Lev Shlosberg to 11 years in prison. Fear of potential military mobilization following the vote has reportedly prompted some citizens to sell property and plan departures, amid heavy Russian casualties in Ukraine.

These internal pressures coincide with late-summer political instability, historically known as "Black August." Analysts point to structural vulnerabilities surrounding 73-year-old President Vladimir Putin, noting the absence of a defined succession plan.

Concurrently, Western intelligence reports suggest Moscow could test NATO's collective defense commitment within the next few years using hybrid tactics, cyber operations, or limited military incursions to evaluate Western unity.

Sources: Avaz, Danas, Index, Klix, Vijesti