Vladimir Putin has relocated a Pantsir anti-aircraft missile and gun system to within a few hundred metres of Moscow's oil refinery, following a Ukrainian drone strike that caused significant damage and shrouded the city in black smoke and oil rain.
Drone attack on Moscow oil refinery
Last week, Ukraine launched what is believed to be its largest aerial assault on the Russian capital, targeting Moscow's Oil Refinery. The attack overwhelmed air defences, leaving the city coated in oily residue and generating noxious fumes. The incident exposed vulnerabilities in Russia's air defence systems, which Moscow has long touted as among the world's best.
The newly deployed Pantsir system is additionally protected by a metal cage, a feature commonly seen on systems near the frontlines. This suggests Putin may have redirected equipment from active combat zones to safeguard the capital.
Growing paranoia and security concerns
Analysts report that Putin's paranoia is intensifying. He reportedly works from bunkers and has abandoned his favourite palaces, fearing drone strikes orchestrated by his own inner circle. Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, a former defence minister, is allegedly among those Putin suspects of plotting a coup.
The Kremlin has already moved to weaken Shoigu's influence, arresting his former deputy last month on corruption charges involving over £50 million in family assets. Fears of another rebellion, reminiscent of the Wagner Group mutiny in 2023, are mounting.
Tightened security measures
The Federal Protective Service has announced significantly tightened security around Putin. Visitors to the Presidential Administration now undergo two levels of screening and a full body search. Putin has also reduced his public appearances, avoiding his usual residences at Novo-Ogaryovo and the Valdai palace.
Putin lives with his partner, Olympic gymnast Alina Kabaeva, and their two sons, Ivan and Vladimir, who use the surname Spiridonov.
Military setbacks
Russia continues to struggle on the front lines, losing ground in several areas while failing to gain significant traction. The relocation of air defences to Moscow further strains military resources, highlighting the impact of Ukraine's persistent drone campaign on Russian strategic priorities.
