Since the start of Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine, the security situation inside Russia itself is worsening. Incidents with Ukrainian drones reaching central Moscow reveal flaws in Russia’s air defense even in its capital. Moscow authorities have stepped up security: mobile internet is shut off, communication is restricted, armored vehicles are deployed, and checkpoints are spread throughout the city. Special attention is being paid to security ahead of the May 9 parade, which carries symbolic meaning for Putin.
At the same time, Russian and Western media report on the possibility of an internal coup at the Kremlin. Intelligence sources suggest that Sergey Shoigu and other close Putin associates may be preparing a plot. Numerous arrests targeting Shoigu’s circle and ongoing Defense Ministry purges reinforce these concerns.
Many Russians, according to polls and Russian media, are tired of the war. Narratives in favor of peace talks have grown stronger with every setback. Protest sentiment is rising, increasing pressure on the Kremlin. Meanwhile, Ukrainian volunteer support boosts the army’s ability to effectively counter Russian aggression.
The situation in Russia remains unstable due to internal and external challenges, with Ukrainian strikes and global isolation pushing these processes further.
