Putin Retreats to Bunkers as Coup Fears and Drone Threats Shake Moscow

Key Points:

• Russian President Vladimir Putin has been on heightened alert since early March due to fears of a coup attempt and drone assassination threats, leading him to operate mainly from fortified bunkers in the Krasnodar region instead of his usual residences.
• The Federal Protective Service (FSO) has expanded its protection list to include at least ten senior military officials following attacks on military leadership, reflecting concerns about systemic security failures within Russia.
• Security measures around the Kremlin have intensified, including two-tier visitor screenings, reduced public appearances by Putin, reliance on pre-recorded media, periodic communication shutdowns, and strict controls on personnel with direct presidential access.
• Tensions between Russia’s security agencies have increased, with disagreements over responsibility and resource allocation for protecting military leadership, highlighting challenges in coordinating internal security efforts.
• On May 4, long-range strike drones targeted Moscow, with debris found near the Kremlin, although air defenses and electronic warfare reportedly prevented the drones from reaching intended targets, demonstrating ongoing threats to the capital’s security.