Assassination threats or coup? Why has the Kremlin tightened security around Putin?

Russia’s power corridors are have always been defined by secrecy and heightened vigilance, but now, as multiple reports indicate that President Vladimir Putin could be a target, that security framework has escalated.

Described in intelligence assessments, the security precautions come amid growing concerns over assassination attempts, possible internal coups, and the long-term strain of the war in Ukraine.

How Putin has been under 'high alert'

According to a report attributed to a European intelligence agency and shared with multiple media outlets, the Kremlin has implemented an array of strict measures designed to insulate Putin from both external threats and potential internal breaches.

The document outlines an environment of “high alert” that has persisted since early March 2026, with particular concern surrounding the possibility of an assassination attempt or coup plot.

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Among the most striking measures is the extension of surveillance beyond official premises. Individuals working closely with Putin — including cooks, photographers, and personal security staff — are now reportedly monitored even within their own homes.

These individuals face additional restrictions in their daily lives, including prohibitions on using public transportation.

The report also details strict communication limitations. Personnel allowed near the Russian president are required to use devices without internet access, significantly reducing the risk of digital interception or leaks.

Visitors seeking to meet Putin must undergo multiple layers of screening. These steps are not entirely unprecedented, but the scale and intensity described in the report mark a notable escalation.

Some of these practices — such as rigorous body searches and limitations on smartphone use — had previously been reported or widely assumed, yet the latest measures suggest a tightening of an already controlled environment.

How Putin's movements have been restricted

The tightening of security has also had a visible impact on Putin’s movements. Intelligence findings suggest that the number of locations he visits regularly has been drastically reduced.

Residences in the Moscow region and at Valdai — long associated with the Russian leader’s private retreats — are no longer part of his routine.

In addition, Putin has not visited military facilities in 2026 so far, a departure from the pattern observed in the previous year, when such visits were more frequent.

Despite these constraints, the Kremlin continues to project an image of normalcy. State media outlets have reportedly relied on pre-recorded footage to maintain the appearance of a consistent schedule.

Putin has continued to make select public appearances, including meetings with regional and international figures such as Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

However, these engagements are understood to be conducted under tightly controlled conditions.

Where Putin works

Since the launch of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Putin is said to have spent extended periods in fortified underground facilities. These locations, including sites in the Krasnodar region near the Black Sea, are reportedly equipped to sustain prolonged stays.

Accounts suggest that Putin often remains in these bunkers for weeks at a time, overseeing military operations and engaging with top commanders. This arrangement reflects both security considerations and the centrality of the war effort in his leadership priorities.

Sources cited in media reports describe a leader increasingly absorbed in managing the conflict, holding frequent interactions with military officials while devoting comparatively less attention to domestic governance.

The reliance on secure underground locations also highlights the perceived threat environment. Ukrainian drone strikes have increasingly targeted sites within Russia, including areas far from the frontlines.

How the Ukraine war is influencing Russia's domestic posture

Western estimates indicate substantial monthly casualties, with figures reaching tens of thousands killed or injured. At the same time, territorial gains have remained limited, contributing to a sense of strategic strain in Russia.

The economic repercussions of the conflict are also becoming more pronounced. Reports point to disruptions in mobile data services across major cities, which have sparked frustration among urban populations.

These outages are seen as part of broader security measures but have had the side effect of affecting everyday life.

Public sentiment appears to be shifting as well. Polling data cited in reports suggests that Putin’s approval ratings have declined to levels not seen in years, reflecting concerns about economic conditions and government policies.

Rising prices and restrictions on internet access have contributed to growing dissatisfaction.

Social media platforms have also seen an increase in expressions of discontent, with users voicing concerns over the cost of living and connectivity issues. While such criticism remains constrained, its visibility marks a notable change in the public discourse.

How past assassinations have raised the alarm

A key catalyst for the recent security overhaul appears to be a series of attacks targeting Russian military figures. Among the most significant incidents was the killing of Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov in Moscow on December 22, 2025.

The attack, reportedly attributed to Ukrainian operatives, exposed vulnerabilities within Russia’s security framework.

In the aftermath, Putin convened a meeting with senior officials to address the situation. The intelligence report describes a tense exchange during which Valery Gerasimov sharply criticised Alexander Bortnikov for failing to ensure adequate protection for military personnel.

In response, the Federal Security Service leadership pointed to limitations in resources and staffing.

The report notes, “Emphasising the fear and demoralisation this has caused among (military) personnel, Valeri Gerasimov strongly criticised his counterparts in the special services for their lack of foresight”.

It adds, “At the end of this tense meeting, Vladimir Putin called for calm, proposing an alternative working format and instructing participants to present concrete solutions to the issue within one week.”

This episode reportedly led to a reassessment of security responsibilities. The Federal Protective Service (FSO), which is tasked with safeguarding top officials, expanded its role to include additional senior military commanders.

How rumours of a coup were assessed

Beyond external risks, the intelligence report indicates that authorities are increasingly concerned about the possibility of a coup attempt or internal conspiracy.

A particular focus is placed on Sergei Shoigu, the former defence minister who now serves as secretary of the Security Council. The document suggests that Shoigu retains significant influence within the military hierarchy, describing him as “associated with the risk of a coup, as he retains significant influence within the military high command”.

The report also references the arrest of Ruslan Tsalikov, a former deputy and close associate of Shoigu, on March 5. Russian authorities stated that Tsalikov faces charges related to embezzlement, money laundering, and bribery.

The intelligence assessment interprets this development as a potential sign of shifting alliances and the weakening of established networks within the elite.

While the report does not provide direct evidence supporting claims of a coup risk, it points to the level of mistrust and uncertainty among Russia’s leadership. Internal disputes are typically concealed from public view, making such disclosures notable.

The notion of internal instability is not without precedent. In June 2023, Russia faced a brief but significant challenge when mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin led an armed march toward Moscow.

Although the uprising was ultimately unsuccessful, it highlighted vulnerabilities within the system.

Intelligence reports such as the one described must be approached with caution, as their details can be difficult to independently verify. The release of such information may also serve strategic purposes, including efforts to influence perceptions or exacerbate tensions.

At the same time, some elements of the report have been corroborated through independent reporting.

For example, claims regarding the redirection of surveillance resources and the role of the FSO in managing internet shutdowns have been supported by sources within Russia’s security apparatus.

What next for Putin

Security concerns have also influenced major public events. The upcoming Victory Day parade on May 9, a central fixture in Russia’s national calendar, will take place without the display of heavy military equipment such as armoured vehicles and missile systems.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov linked the change to the evolving threat environment, stating, “Against the backdrop of this terrorist threat,” he said, “of course, all measures are being taken to minimize the danger.”

The event is also expected to see a reduced presence of high-level foreign dignitaries.

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With inputs from agencies