Putin has stopped appearing at Russian military headquarters amid fears of a conspiracy and internal threats in the Kremlin

10 March 2026 , 15:55

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Putin has stopped appearing at Russian military headquarters amid fears of a conspiracy and internal threats in the Kremlin

Russian president Vladimir Putin has not visited any command centres of the Ministry of Defence this year, according to sources, despite regularly doing so throughout 2025.

According to one source, the change reflects several factors, including the lack of clear successes on the battlefield and what was described as “exhausting negotiations.” The source also suggested that Putin himself may be showing less personal engagement with the war.

Another factor reportedly involves what insiders describe as extraordinary security concerns inside the Kremlin. According to the source, officials fear potential developments linked not to Ukraine but to internal processes within Russia.

“This is no longer conspiracy theory,” the source said. “There are real concerns in the Kremlin about certain events. I don’t know whether they fear a coup, a conspiracy, or something similar, but they are clearly worried about something serious.”

The source also noted that in 2026 Putin and members of his family have not visited their traditional residence in Valdai. Instead, they have reportedly spent more time at a palace in Russia’s Krasnodar region. Following renovations, the residence has allegedly been transformed into a heavily fortified complex equipped with multiple layers of security and shelters.

At the same time, mobile communications have reportedly been disrupted for several days in central Moscow and in districts where facilities connected to Russia’s security services are located.

Questions have also emerged about where recent footage showing Putin visiting military command posts was actually filmed.

According to sources, on November 18 the Russia National Centre in Moscow was prepared early in the morning for a potential presidential visit. Security teams reportedly inspected the entire area, including underground utilities and technical structures, while dogs and handlers checked surrounding facilities.

From around 4am, the area was secured by approximately 2,000 personnel from the police, National Guard, Federal Security Service and the Federal Protective Service. Patrols equipped with shotguns and anti-drone equipment were reportedly stationed along the embankment in case of drone attacks.

However, there were no official announcements that Putin had visited the Russia National Centre that day. Two days later, on November 20, video footage was released showing Putin visiting the command post of Russia’s “West” military grouping. According to the source, it is possible the footage was actually filmed in Moscow on November 18 rather than at an active military command location.

Elizabeth Baker

Technology & Business Editor