Russia tightens domestic controls and monitors regional elections amid political tensions

Russian authorities are increasing domestic controls ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections. The government has banned Yabloko, the nation's remaining anti-war political party, and sentenced senior party official Lev Schlosberg to 11 years in prison.

Heightened public concern over a potential military mobilization following the vote has reportedly driven some citizens to sell assets and prepare to leave the country. These developments coincide with "Black August," a late-summer period traditionally associated with political and economic instability in Russia, as well as ongoing debate over long-term succession plans for 73-year-old President Vladimir Putin.

Beyond its borders, Moscow is actively monitoring upcoming elections in Serbia, issuing repeated warnings about potential Western-backed "color revolutions" to preserve its regional influence.

Sources: Avaz, Danas, Klix, N1, Vijesti