A European intelligence report details the Kremlin's dramatic escalation of personal security around President Vladimir Putin, citing a wave of high-profile assassinations and mounting fears of internal power struggles. These new measures include surveillance in residences and severe restrictions on movement for Putin's inner circle.
Heightened Security Protocols
The security apparatus surrounding the Russian President has been significantly reinforced. Key restrictions detailed in the report include:
- Movement Restrictions: Cooks, bodyguards, and photographers working with the President are prohibited from using public transportation.
- Access Control: Visitors to the Kremlin chief must undergo double screening.
- Communication Limits: Staff working in close proximity are restricted to using phones without internet access.
Triggers for Increased Alertness
These heightened security measures were reportedly implemented following the killing of a senior general in December, an event that reportedly sparked disputes within Russia's top security ranks. The report suggests this reflects growing unease within the Kremlin due to multiple domestic and international pressures:
- Economic difficulties.
- Increasing signs of internal dissent.
- Setbacks on the battlefield in Ukraine.
Furthermore, the Kremlin has curtailed Putin's public appearances, with the President and his family reportedly avoiding usual residences, including the secluded Valdai property. The report notes that Putin has not visited a military facility this year, despite a history of such visits.
Concerns Over Internal Stability and Coup Risk
The intelligence dossier highlights significant concerns regarding the political stability within the Russian elite. Specific areas of focus include:
- Assassination Threats: Since early 2026, the Kremlin has reportedly been concerned about potential leaks of sensitive information and the risk of a coup attempt, particularly involving drones.
- Focus on Shoigu: The report singles out former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, noting he is associated with the risk of a coup due to his continued influence within the military high command.
- Tsalikov's Arrest: The arrest of Shoigu's former deputy, Ruslan Tsalikov, was described as a potential breach of elite protection agreements, which could weaken Shoigu and increase the risk of him facing judicial investigation.
Background and Context
The report provides rare insight into internal Kremlin deliberations. The escalation of security protocols is linked to a tense meeting following the assassination of Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov in December 2025. During this meeting, the Chief of the General Staff criticized the FSB head for inadequate protection, leading Putin to mandate an expansion of the Federal Protection Service (FSO) to cover ten additional senior commanders.
Western nations estimate Russia's losses in Ukraine to be substantial, and the economic impact, including disruptions like cell-phone data outages, is reportedly beginning to affect the urban elite.
