Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has cautioned the Kremlin that their Victory Day Parade may face attacks in retaliation for aggressive Russian assaults on Ukrainian citizens. This warning comes as four individuals were reported dead in Moscow’s recent attacks and amid revelations that Russian President Vladimir Putin is increasingly isolated, seeking refuge in underground bunkers.
Sources have disclosed that Putin has been residing in underground shelters for several weeks due to escalating rumors of a potential palace coup, with speculation linking his old friend and former defense minister Sergei Shoigu to an alleged attempt to overthrow Putin. Meanwhile, as news surfaced of two men and two women killed in assaults on Ukraine’s Kharkiv, Zelensky stated that the upcoming May 9 Kremlin parade would lack the grandeur of previous celebrations.
The highly anticipated event in Moscow’s military calendar is scheduled for Saturday, but the Kremlin will showcase significantly diminished military presence this year. Zelensky highlighted that Russia’s parade on May 9 would not feature any military equipment, marking a departure from past displays. Additionally, the Ukrainian leader pointed out the vulnerability of the Kremlin to potential drone strikes, indicating a shift in their strength compared to previous years.
Reports from a Western intelligence agency, as disclosed by the independent Russian news outlet Important Stories, suggest that Putin and the Kremlin have been on high alert since March 2026 due to concerns about sensitive information leaks and possible coup attempts. Security measures around Putin have been notably tightened, with the Federal Protective Service implementing stringent screening protocols and limiting the president’s movements to secure locations.
Amidst these security concerns, Putin is reported to have sought refuge in renovated bunkers in the Krasnodar region, where he spends extended periods working while communication with the public is maintained through pre-recorded media. The region, frequently targeted by Ukrainian drones, is home to Putin’s lavish Gelendzhik palace, featuring extensive underground facilities reminiscent of a movie villain’s lair.
The escalation of tensions and drone strikes in Ukraine has heightened internal power struggles within Russia, leading to a potential conflict among Russian power factions vying for control amidst a weakening dictator. The recent deadly attack in Kharkiv claimed four lives and injured 16 individuals, prompting heightened security measures and further unrest in the region.
