Russian elites are increasingly fearful that the FSB
Russian elites are increasingly fearful that the FSB, particularly its Second Service, has gained unchecked power under Vladimir Putin's support, leading to widespread political repression, the targeting of prominent figures like Pavel Durov, and a shift in influence away from civilian officials toward security forces. This shift is attributed to growing instability from the war in Ukraine and the need for tighter control over society and business.
Consensus
- Vladimir Putin is increasingly relying on the FSB to maintain control over Russia.
- The influence of the FSB, especially its Second Service, is growing significantly.
- Civilian officials, including first deputy head of the Presidential Administration Sergei Kirienko, are losing influence.
- Sergei Kirienko has been criticized for failures in Russian political operations in Armenia, Moldova, and Hungary.
- The FSB is pursuing legal actions against individuals perceived as disloyal, including Pavel Durov, Ilya Remeslo, and Boris Nadezhdin.
- The FSB is involved in creating unofficial lists of artists, musicians, and directors deemed unpatriotic.
- There is growing fear among Russian elites and the general public due to the expansion of repression.
- The FSB has been linked to efforts to restrict the operation of Telegram, including filing criminal charges against its founder.
- The FSB has been accused of using laws against extremism and defamation of the armed forces to suppress dissent.
- The FSB has been involved in asset seizures and transfers to loyal businessmen.
- The FSB's role in internet regulation began in summer 2025, with major service blockages initiated by the agency.
Points of divergence
- The Second Service of the FSB may investigate cases against almost anyone without serious external oversight or accountability. — novaya_eu
- The FSB's actions are driven by increasing concern over the war in Ukraine and rising Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory. — tg_echoonline_news
- The FSB entered a conflict with Sergei Kirienko because he was seen as a representative of Yuri Kovalchuk, a rival power figure. — tg_istories_media
- The Second Service is led by someone linked to the poisoning of Alexei Navalny and Vladimir Kara-Murza. — tg_moscowtimes_ru
Coverage (4 sources)
- Russian elite fears FSB is losing control — Bloomberg — Новая газета Европа
- Bloomberg: Russian elite fears FSB has lost control — ЭХО / Новости
- Russian elites now fear FSB, writes Bloomberg. Special service finally came under no control — Важные истории
- «No one knows who they will come after». The second FSB service headed by poisoner Navalny received a carte blanche from Putin for political and economic repression — The Moscow Times
Key entities
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