Analysis of Growing Internal Disagreement and Predictions of Political Change in Russia
Introduction
Recent public statements from former supporters of the Kremlin suggest that dissatisfaction with President Vladimir Putin's administration is increasing, with some predicting a systemic change in leadership.
Main Body
Ilya Remeslo, a lawyer who previously supported the Russian security services and the conflict in Ukraine, claimed that a non-military 'palace coup' will happen by late 2026 or early 2027. In an interview with Ksenia Sobchak, Remeslo asserted that some officials in the presidential administration are angry with Putin because they have lost personal benefits and because decision-making is too centralized. He suggested that a future government would be right-wing and would focus on attracting investment by reducing corporate taxes. Remeslo identified three possible successors: Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Minister for Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov—who has pointed out that state reserves are running low—and Col-Gen Alexei Dyumin. These claims follow Remeslo's time in a psychiatric hospital after he called the president a war criminal in March. Furthermore, there is an unverified theory that his current actions are being supported by certain members of the security services. At the same time, Victoria Bonya, a well-known influencer and former state supporter, released a video claiming that the president is isolated from the truth about domestic issues. Bonya highlighted several systemic failures, such as environmental disasters in Dagestan and Anapa, the decline of small businesses, and strict internet laws. She argued that these problems have caused significant public tension. However, public opinion remains divided; while some believe these views represent a wider consensus, others argue that the president is fully aware of these issues and uses fear as a tool to maintain control.
Conclusion
The current situation shows a change in tone from former loyalists. They now predict a systemic collapse and a transition of power caused by internal government conflicts and economic instability.