Vladimir Putin is reportedly facing a coup from Russia's elites, with a power challenge dubbed 'Operation Twilight' being planned, according to reports from Estonia. The Russian leader's death could be staged as he is forced into lifelong isolation, it is claimed.
Experts say Putin is in a 'very dangerous situation' as dissatisfaction grows among economic, political and military leaders who prop up his regime. Russian dissident Igor Eidman told The Sun that, for the first time in decades, the interests of the ruling elite 'fundamentally do not align with the dictator'.
Oligarchs and business magnates, who have long formed the bedrock of Putin's grip on power, have seen their wealth slashed since the invasion of Ukraine and subsequent economic sanctions. Russian political activist Maksim Kalashnikov openly admitted that elites view Putin as a 'toxic figure' and a 'liability', and want an end to the war to restore their comfortable lifestyles.
Russia's defence spending hit £144bn in 2025 as the war continues, and Putin has turned to the country's wealthiest for donations to fund the war machine. Eidman noted that the wealthy are under constant stress, with budget deficits and pressure to provide funds, recruit employees, and create private military companies.
Even pro-Kremlin war correspondent Grigory Kubatyan has admitted that Russia's army is failing and peace talks are needed. 'The war must be won or ended to save lives,' he said, adding that it is impossible to wage war indefinitely.
