Russia faces growing internal strains and international scrutiny ahead of elections

Russian authorities have intensified domestic controls ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections, banning the opposition party Yabloko and sentencing prominent politician Lev Shlosberg to 11 years in prison. The crackdown coincides with mounting public anxiety over potential post-election military mobilization, with reports indicating some citizens are liquidating assets to leave the country.

Concurrently, Western intelligence assessments suggest President Vladimir Putin could test NATO unity through limited hybrid or military actions in coming years. Observers also point to long-term governance risks within Moscow, citing the lack of a defined succession framework for the 73-year-old leader alongside persistent seasonal economic and political pressures.

Sources: Avaz, Danas, Index, Klix, Vijesti