Kremlin elite ‘turn on Putin’ as coup rumours swirl in Moscow

Reports of deepening fractures within Russia’s political and business elite have fuelled claims that Vladimir Putin is facing mounting internal pressure, with some insiders warning of growing instability at the top of the Kremlin.

Critics and commentators suggest that tensions within Russia’s security and economic establishment are becoming increasingly difficult to contain, as the strains of war, sanctions and elite infighting reshape the balance of power around the Russian president.

Igor Eidman, a Russian sociologist and outspoken critic living in exile in Germany, has claimed that for the first time in decades the interests of those surrounding Mr Putin are beginning to diverge fundamentally from his own, warning of what he described as a potentially “very dangerous situation” for the Kremlin leadership.

He argues that sections of Russia’s elite are increasingly focused on preserving their wealth and influence in the face of sweeping Western sanctions imposed after the invasion of Ukraine, which have significantly disrupted access to international markets and assets.

Separate reports from Estonia have referred to speculation about a possible internal challenge to Mr Putin’s authority, described in some accounts as “Operation Twilight”, though no verified evidence has been produced to support claims of an organised coup attempt.

Analysts note that oligarchs and major business figures have long played a crucial role in sustaining the Russian political system, but say the war in Ukraine has placed unprecedented strain on these relationships, particularly as asset freezes and travel bans continue to bite.

Maksim Kalashnikov, a Russian writer and commentator, has also pointed to what he describes as a widening gap between the Kremlin leadership and parts of the country’s economic and administrative elite.

However, despite persistent speculation, Mr Putin retains tight control over Russia’s security services and political institutions, which remain central to maintaining his authority.

There has been no independent confirmation of any active plot against the Russian president, and claims of internal moves against him remain unverified.