Kathrine Frich
The agent was seen carrying a Yolka,
The agent was seen carrying a Yolka,
Putin’s Assassination Fears Resurface During Victory Day Parade
Heightened concerns over Vladimir Putin’s personal safety were brought into sharp focus during Russia’s Victory Day parade in May, when one of his bodyguards was spotted carrying a specialised anti-drone weapon.
The unusual detail, revealed in footage that surfaced months later, underscores the Russian president’s deepening anxiety over potential assassination attempts, particularly from airborne threats.
Ukrainian Analyst Identifies Secretive Anti-Drone Device
Military analyst Serhii Beskrestnov drew attention to a peculiar object clutched by a suited member of Putin’s security team.
The agent was seen carrying a Yolka, an advanced, kinetic interceptor drone designed to target and neutralise incoming threats.
Only partially hidden inside a bag, the device appeared ready for immediate use, suggesting fears of a real-time strike.
Yolka: Russia’s “Fire and Forget” Drone Killer
The Yolka is no ordinary surveillance gadget, it’s a compact quadcopter-style drone with X-shaped wings, armed with AI-powered optical tracking.
Once launched, it autonomously hunts down enemy drones, destroying them either on impact or by triggering detonation.
Its deployment by Putin’s team highlights the seriousness of the threat assessments facing the Kremlin.
Security Measures Ramp Up in Red Square
This year’s Victory Day parade featured unusually tight security.
A special canopy was installed above the grandstand. a first in the event’s history, intended to shield Putin and other top officials from aerial attacks.
The added presence of armed bodyguards and anti-drone equipment suggests a dramatic shift in how Russia’s leadership perceives personal threats.
Drone Fears Prompt Naval Parade Cancellation
Putin’s paranoia over drone strikes reportedly led to the cancellation of the traditional Navy Day parade in the Gulf of Finland. Instead of the usual grand naval spectacle, smaller, tightly controlled events were held.
The Kremlin cited “security concerns” tied to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, reinforcing the notion that Putin sees drone attacks as a clear and present danger.
Nuclear Briefcase Seen Amid Tightened Security
Alongside the anti-drone Yolka, another key element of Putin’s protection detail was also visible: the notorious nuclear briefcase.
Often referred to as the “Cheget,” the device enables direct launch of nuclear weapons and is always in the vicinity of the Russian president.
Its presence at the parade further emphasised the high alert status surrounding Putin.
Zelensky Talks Rejected Over Security Concerns
Putin has long resisted bilateral talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, reportedly in part due to assassination fears.
His reluctance to appear in less controlled settings reflects both personal vulnerability and the political risks tied to perceived weakness during wartime.
Trump Tightens Ceasefire Deadline
Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a new ultimatum to Putin, reducing the timeframe for ceasefire talks with Ukraine from 50 days to just 10.
Speaking from Scotland, Trump criticised the Russian leader for feigning diplomacy while continuing missile strikes on Ukrainian towns, expressing disappointment in what he called “disrespectful” actions.
Public Displays Mask a Private Paranoia
While the Victory Day parade projected strength and nationalism, the discreet deployment of anti-drone tech and reinforced shielding conveyed a more anxious reality.
Behind the spectacle, Putin’s increasing reliance on high-tech bodyguards and secrecy underscores how deeply the Ukraine war has transformed his public and private life.
