Russia faces mounting pre-election strain amid opposition bans and draft fears

Tensions in Russia are rising ahead of September's parliamentary elections as authorities intensify political repression and citizens prepare for potential military conscription. Following the ban of Yabloko, the country's last legal anti-war opposition party, senior politician Lev Shlosberg was sentenced to 11 years in prison. Public anxiety over a potential post-election draft has prompted some residents to liquidate assets and plan departures from the country, coinciding with the late-summer period historically termed "Black August."

Simultaneously, analysts point to long-term systemic risks surrounding leadership succession for 73-year-old President Vladimir Putin. Abroad, US intelligence assessments suggest Moscow could conduct hybrid operations or limited incursions against NATO members in the coming years to test the alliance's unity.

Sources: Avaz, Danas, Index, Klix, Vijesti