Russian authorities tighten control ahead of parliamentary elections

Ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections, Russian authorities are expanding domestic controls and stifling political opposition. The ban on the opposition Yabloko party and the 11-year prison sentence handed to politician Lev Schlossberg highlight a continued crackdown on anti-war dissent since the invasion of Ukraine.

Amid these political measures, public anxiety is rising over a potential wave of military mobilization following the vote, prompting some citizens to sell assets and prepare to leave the country. Observers note these developments coincide with Russia's traditional "Black August," a period historically marked by political and economic instability. Long-term governance concerns also persist due to the lack of clear succession plans for 73-year-old President Vladimir Putin. Internationally, Moscow remains attentive to Balkan politics, warning against potential "color revolution" scenarios ahead of elections in Serbia.

Sources: Avaz, Danas, Klix, N1, Vijesti