Kathrine Frich
The fortified compound is believed to be home to Putin’s alleged partner and children.
The fortified compound is believed to be home to Putin’s alleged partner and children.
Putin Ramps Up Defences Around Secret Palace
Vladimir Putin has installed at least a dozen Pantsir air defence towers around his lavish Valdai residence, located 230 miles northwest of Moscow.
The move comes amid growing Ukrainian drone attacks deep into Russian territory. Just a year ago, only seven such towers were seen in the area.
High-Security Hideaway for Secret Family
The fortified compound is believed to be home to Putin’s alleged partner, Olympic gymnastics champion Alina Kabaeva, and their two young sons, Ivan and Vladimir junior.
The main palace is accompanied by a separate home for Kabaeva and the children, hidden among lakes and forests.
Valdai vs Moscow: Defence Disparity
Independent outlet Svoboda notes that Valdai’s 12 air defence positions are only five times fewer than those protecting Moscow and its 20 million residents.
This shows the extraordinary security surrounding Putin’s private life compared to the capital.
S-400 Systems Join the Defences
Alongside the Pantsir towers, Russia’s powerful S-400 air defence system has been deployed to the area.
This network is capable of intercepting aircraft, drones, and even ballistic missiles, underscoring the Kremlin’s determination to secure the site.
Palace with Private Railway Access
The Valdai estate is served by its own railway line, specially built to accommodate Putin’s personal armoured train.
The restricted zone surrounding the retreat is reportedly larger than the entire island nation of Malta, making it almost impossible to approach.
Luxuries Hidden in the Forests
Between 2016 and 2020, the complex added a large children’s playground in bright yellow and blue, the colours of Ukraine, deep in the woods.
A small karting track replaced former helipads, adding to the leisure amenities within the heavily guarded compound.
Meeting Kabaeva and the Children
Putin is said to have first met Alina Kabaeva in 2001, when she was just 18 years old.
Their son Ivan, now 10, was seen earlier this year at a gymnastics event held at the Valdai compound, suggesting the family spends significant time at the retreat.
Secrecy and Paranoia Grow
Although Putin has never acknowledged his young family in public, reports claim he was furious over leaks about Kabaeva and the palace.
The recent bolstering of defences is seen by analysts as a sign of increasing paranoia as the Ukraine war grinds on.
