Bunkers, Cameras, and Total Control: The Kremlin Has Unprecedentedly Strengthened Security for Putin – CNN 0 9

The Kremlin has sharply intensified security measures around Russian ruler Vladimir Putin amid a wave of killings of Russian military personnel and growing concerns about a possible coup. This is stated in a report from European intelligence that has come into the possession of CNN.

Total Control and New Restrictions

According to intelligence, surveillance systems are being installed in the homes of those close to Putin, and staff – from cooks to photographers – have been banned from using public transportation. All visitors undergo double checks, and employees near the dictator can only use phones without internet access.

These measures were intensified after the assassination of a high-ranking general at the end of 2025, which heightened tensions among the security forces of the Russian Federation.

Fewer Trips and More Isolation

Putin has significantly restricted his movements: he has stopped visiting traditional residences in the Moscow region and on Lake Valdai, and he has not appeared at military facilities this year. Instead, the Kremlin increasingly publishes pre-recorded videos.

According to sources, the Russian leader regularly spends time in upgraded bunkers, particularly in the Krasnodar region.

Fear of a Coup and the "Drone Threat"

The report notes that since March 2026, the Kremlin has been seriously concerned about the risk of conspiracy or coup attempts. There is particular alarm over the possibility of assassination attempts using drones – specifically from members of the Russian elite.

Sergey Shoigu is mentioned separately, as he is associated with potential risks to the stability of power due to his influence in the military leadership. However, the report does not provide evidence for these claims.

War, Losses, and Internal Tensions

Amid the protracted war against Ukraine, Russia is suffering significant losses – Western estimates suggest up to 30,000 killed and wounded monthly. Economic problems, communication disruptions in major cities, and discontent among the elite only exacerbate tensions.

Previously, Putin experienced an attempted coup in 2023 when Yevgeny Prigozhin organized a march on Moscow.

The report also describes internal disagreements among security officials. After the assassination of a lieutenant general at the end of 2025, Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov sharply criticized FSB head Alexander Bortnikov for security failures.

In response, Putin expanded the powers of the Federal Protective Service, assigning it the protection of an additional ten high-ranking commanders.

The tightening of security measures coincided with changes in the conduct of the May 9 parade in Moscow. According to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, this year's event will take place without heavy equipment due to the threat of strikes and security considerations.