Vladimir Putin has reportedly sought refuge in secure bunkers for extended periods amid concerns of a potential coup, according to a report referencing a Western intelligence agency. Security measures around the Russian leader have been significantly heightened as he has refrained from visiting his usual residences to avoid potential drone strikes orchestrated by internal threats.
Since March 2026, there have been worries within the Kremlin about leaks of sensitive information and the looming possibility of a coup targeting Putin. The Russian president is particularly apprehensive about the use of drones for potential assassination attempts by influential figures in Russian politics.
The report also suggests that Putin has been spending considerable time in renovated bunkers in the Krasnodar region during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This region, known for being targeted by Ukrainian drones, houses his elaborate Gelendzhik palace, often likened to a setting from a James Bond movie.
Furthermore, security measures have been tightened significantly, with the Federal Protective Service (FSO) conducting thorough screenings of visitors and reducing the locations regularly frequented by Putin. His public relations team has reportedly been sidelined, with security personnel now overseeing media reports about him under a classified presidential decree.
The heightened security measures come following the killing of a senior military official in Moscow, leading to increased vigilance and suspicion within Putin’s inner circle. The president has called for a reevaluation of security protocols and proposed changes to address the perceived threats.
Overall, the report paints a picture of heightened paranoia and strict security protocols surrounding Putin, reflecting the ongoing tensions and perceived risks within the Russian political landscape.