Russia tightens domestic control and eyes Balkan ties ahead of elections

Russian authorities are intensifying measures against internal dissent ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections, recently banning the country's last legal anti-war opposition party, Yabloko, and sentencing party leader Lev Schlosberg to 11 years in prison.

The political crackdown coincides with widespread public anxiety regarding a potential draft following the vote, prompting some citizens to sell assets and prepare to flee abroad. Analysts also highlight growing uncertainty over long-term succession plans for 73-year-old President Vladimir Putin amidst recurring seasonal tensions, traditionally referred to as "Black August."

Concurrently, Moscow is focusing attention beyond its borders. Russian officials have repeatedly issued warnings about potential Western-backed "color revolutions" surrounding elections in Serbia, seeking to safeguard its influence in the Balkans.

Sources: Avaz, Danas, Klix, N1, Vijesti