The Financial Times recently released an exclusive investigation detailing how the Kremlin has significantly ramped up security measures surrounding Russian President Vladimir Putin. Increasingly, he is staying in underground bunkers to shield himself from potential assassination attempts or coups.
These insights have been gathered from sources linked to European intelligence services and individuals close to Putin's inner circle. Since March, paranoia has been on the rise within the Kremlin.
European Intelligence Insights
An intelligence report from Europe, obtained by CNN, highlights growing concerns since early March 2026. The Kremlin and Putin himself have been worried about possible leaks of sensitive information and the threat of a conspiracy or coup aimed at the Russian leader. Particularly concerning is the potential use of drones by members of the Russian political elite to carry out an assassination attempt.
Triggering Events: Drones, Assassination, and Political Unrest
Three significant events have escalated these fears. The first was the Ukrainian Operation Spiderweb on June 1, 2025, which involved over 100 AI-driven drones targeting Russian airbases, even reaching beyond the Arctic Circle. "The impact of the drones from Operation Spiderweb is still felt," a Kremlin insider told the Financial Times.
The second was the assassination of Lieutenant General Fanil Sarvarov on December 22, 2025, in Moscow, through a car bomb placed under his vehicle, marking the latest in a series of attacks against Russian military leaders connected to Ukraine.
The third factor was the capture of Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces on January 3, 2026, in Caracas, which reportedly heightened Putin's fears of a similar operation targeting him.
Life in Bunkers and Limited Public Appearances
Putin and his family have ceased visiting their usual residences around Moscow and Valdai, opting instead for extended stays in bunkers located in Russia's southern Krasnodar region. To maintain a façade of normalcy, state media frequently broadcasts pre-recorded footage. As of late April 2026, Putin had only appeared in public twice, compared to at least 17 times in 2025. Insiders say he devotes 70% of his time to military operations, leaving only 30% for internal and bilateral matters.
Extreme Security Measures
The personal security precautions surrounding Putin verge on the extraordinary. It's believed he has at least three surgically altered doubles. Ukraine has asserted that the person who visited Mariupol during the conflict was not Putin, citing discrepancies in the chin, ears, and gait.
At official dinners, Putin consumes food brought from Russia, which must be tested by an official taster. According to Paris Match, when traveling, a specialized team collects his feces and returns them to the Kremlin encased in plastic to prevent access to his DNA.
Chefs, photographers, and bodyguards are forbidden from using public transportation and internet-connected devices in Putin's presence. Visitors are subjected to double screenings before meeting him, and surveillance systems have been installed in the homes of close staff. The Federal Protection Service conducts dog patrols along the Moskva River.
Internal Tensions and Declining Popularity
Following Sarvarov's assassination, the head of the Federal Security Service, Alexander Bortnikov, blamed the Defense Ministry for security lapses. In response, Putin extended security to ten high-ranking generals. Intelligence reports identify former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu as a figure linked to the risk of a coup due to his influential position within the military leadership.
This isn't Putin's first internal threat; in June 2023, mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin led a failed march toward Moscow with Wagner forces.
Putin's approval ratings have plummeted to their lowest since autumn 2022. Social media discontent has surfaced, with influencer Viktoria Bonya's 18-minute video addressing Putin garnering over 1.5 million reactions, prompting the Kremlin to acknowledge it publicly.
Meanwhile, Western nations estimate Russian casualties in Ukraine at approximately 30,000 dead and injured monthly. This Saturday, the Victory Day parade in Red Square will proceed without heavy weaponry for the first time since 2008. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov summed up the situation in Moscow: "In light of this terrorist threat, all measures are being taken to minimize danger."
Key Questions on Putin's Security Measures
Why has the Kremlin increased security around Putin?
The Kremlin has heightened security due to fears of assassination attempts or a coup, exacerbated by recent events such as drone attacks and the assassination of a general.
What measures are being taken to protect Putin?
Measures include staying in bunkers, pre-recorded public appearances, use of body doubles, and extreme personal security protocols such as food tasters and DNA protection.
How has public opinion of Putin changed recently?
Putin's popularity has declined to its lowest since 2022, with increasing public discontent visible on social media platforms.