August M
A leaked European intelligence report suggests Vladimir Putin is increasingly fearful of an assassination attempt or a potential coup from within his own political elite.
As the conflict continues, rumours of instability within the Kremlin are once again beginning to surface. Western intelligence agencies rarely disclose private assessments of rival states, but a newly leaked document reportedly outlines serious security concerns at the highest levels of the Russian government. Observers remain divided over whether a leadership change is genuinely possible or whether the leak is simply intended to fuel uncertainty and paranoia, reports The Express.
Fearing the elite
Since March 2026, the Russian president has reportedly grown deeply worried about sensitive information leaks. According to media outlets including CNN and the Financial Times, the unnamed intelligence report highlights a specific fear of targeted drone strikes.
The document suggests Putin is particularly wary of an assassination attempt organised by his inner circle. To protect the leader, security measures have been heavily reinforced in recent months.
Reports claim surveillance systems are now active inside the private homes of close staff. Those working directly near the president also face strict new daily rules, including a ban on public transport and limits on personal phone usage.
A sidelined ally
The most surprising detail in the leaked assessment involves Sergei Shoigu, the former defence minister. The report claims he is currently associated with the risk of a potential coup because he retains significant influence across the military high command.
Roman Anin, a Russian investigative journalist, explained to DW that Shoigu was the leader of a highly influential group for many years.
“As defence minister and head of the disaster relief ministry, he managed to unite a large number of people under his command and involve them in corrupt networks,” Anin told DW. He added that these individuals “adhere to a mafia-like code.”
Rising internal tension
The intelligence document does not provide concrete evidence to support the claims against the former defence minister. Any internal move against the Russian leader would mark a massive shift in loyalty.
However, Putin has already survived one significant uprising. In 2023, the late Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin launched a failed military march towards Moscow.
Recent security precautions followed a string of targeted attacks against senior military figures, including the assassination of a top general. The president has reportedly reduced his travel schedule, avoiding usual residences and skipping military facility visits entirely this year.
Sources: The Express, CNN, Financial Times, DW
