Russia tightens political control ahead of September elections

Russian authorities have intensified domestic political restrictions ahead of September's parliamentary elections by banning the anti-war Yabloko party and sentencing politician Lev Schlosberg to 11 years in prison. The crackdown coincides with growing public anxiety over potential post-election military mobilization, prompting some citizens to sell assets and prepare to flee despite official Kremlin denials.

These developments align with Russia's historical late-summer period of instability, known as "Black August," as questions persist over long-term succession plans for 73-year-old President Vladimir Putin. Simultaneously, Moscow is focusing on Serbia's upcoming elections, repeatedly issuing warnings against potential "color revolutions" to preserve its regional influence.

Sources: Avaz, Danas, Klix, N1, Vijesti