Russia on Alert for Putin Coup, Kremlin Tightens Security with Layered Guards
The Kremlin is reportedly tightening security around Russian President Vladimir Putin following heightened concerns over internal threats, including potential coups and leaks of sensitive information. A European intelligence report reveals that Putin’s personal security has been significantly enhanced.
Closest staff members, such as cooks, bodyguards, and photographers, are now prohibited from using public transport. Additionally, they are only allowed to use mobile phones without internet access to minimise the risk of eavesdropping.
Visitors to the Kremlin must undergo layered checks. Even additional surveillance systems have been installed in the homes of key staff.
This policy is said to have been implemented in recent months, particularly after the murder of a Russian general in December, which triggered tensions within the security apparatus. The report states that the Kremlin is increasingly anxious amid pressures from various directions.
In addition to economic challenges, Russia is facing signs of growing domestic dissent as well as military pressures in the war in Ukraine. “Since early March 2026, the Kremlin and Vladimir Putin himself have been concerned about potential leaks of sensitive information, as well as the risk of planned or attempted coups,” the report states, as quoted by CNN International on Monday (4/5/2026).
Not only that, Putin is also reportedly increasingly limiting his movements. He is said to have reduced visits to several routine locations, including his private residences in the Moscow region and Valdai.
Moreover, throughout this year, he is said not to have visited military facilities directly. Instead, the Kremlin is reportedly more frequently releasing pre-produced video recordings to maintain the image of the president’s public presence.
Since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Putin has also been reported to often spend weeks in a bunker with enhanced security. Particularly in the Krasnodar region bordering the Black Sea.
On the other hand, the prolonged war is beginning to have a significant impact. Western countries estimate that Russian casualties amount to around 30,000 killed and wounded each month.
Pressure is also coming from increasingly frequent Ukrainian drone attacks reaching Russian territory. In addition, disruptions to communication services in major cities are beginning to spark dissatisfaction among urban populations.
The report also highlights rising internal conflicts among Russia’s military and security elites. One point that has emerged is the alleged risk of a coup linked to former Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu, who now serves as Secretary of the Security Council.
“Shoigu is linked to the risk of a coup because he still has significant influence within the high military command,” the report states.
Nevertheless, the report does not include concrete evidence for this claim. The situation is considered sensitive, given that Shoigu was previously known as one of Putin’s closest allies.
Internal tensions are also reflected in a late 2025 Kremlin meeting. Chief of the General Staff Valeri Gerasimov reportedly criticised FSB head Alexander Bortnikov over failures to protect military personnel.
“Emphasising the fear and demoralisation caused among personnel, Valeri Gerasimov strongly criticised his counterparts in the special services for lacking foresight,” the report states.
In response to the situation, Putin is said to have expanded the role of the Federal Protective Service (FSO). This is to protect up to 10 senior commanders, not just himself.
Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov acknowledged the increase in security threats, particularly from long-range Ukrainian attacks. “Against the background of these terrorist threats, of course all measures are being taken to minimise the danger,” he said.
These security measures also impact Russia’s Victory Day celebrations on 9 May. This year’s military parade on Red Square is said to be held without heavy weaponry such as armoured vehicles and missiles, differing from previous traditions.