Russia faces election crackdowns, mobilization fears, and succession uncertainty

Russian authorities are intensifying domestic crackdowns ahead of September's parliamentary elections, prohibiting the anti-war Yabloko party and sentencing politician Lev Shlosberg to 11 years in prison. Meanwhile, public fear of a second military draft following the vote has reportedly driven some citizens to sell property and plan foreign exits, compounding traditional late-summer anxieties often referred to in Russia as "Black August."

Long-term political stability remains uncertain as 73-year-old President Vladimir Putin has not designated a clear successor. Internationally, Western intelligence agencies warn that Moscow could test NATO cohesion in the coming years using hybrid tactics, cyberattacks, or limited military incursions into member states.

Sources: Avaz, Danas, Index, Klix, Vijesti