Unverified reports emerging from Moscow suggest that Russian President Vladimir Putin is experiencing mounting tensions within the country’s security elite.
This unrest appears to be linked to a possible conspiracy involving allies of Sergei Shoigu, the former defence minister.
A Telegram-linked channel, VChK-OGPU, which claims insider access to Russian security services, has reported that authorities have implemented restrictions on internet access in central Moscow.
These restrictions are particularly concentrated around key military and law enforcement sites, raising concerns about potential unrest or internal conflict among powerful factions.
The Daily Star reported that Shoigu, who served as the minister of defence during the prolonged war in Ukraine, transitioned to his role on the Security Council in 2024.
He has reportedly not made any public appearances since March 5, which has intensified speculation about increasing rifts within the Kremlin.
Additionally, several of his close associates have been detained on corruption charges in recent weeks. Notably, former Deputy Defence Minister Ruslan Tsalikov was arrested on allegations of illicit wealth, further complicating Shoigu’s situation.
Residents and businesses in Moscow have reported severe internet disruptions and service outages, describing the atmosphere as “chaos.”
This deterioration in communication infrastructure echoes similar shutdowns during the Wagner Group rebellion, which Yevgeny Prigozhin orchestrated in 2023. Such events have previously indicated periods of significant instability in Russia.
Despite these alarming developments, there is currently no independent confirmation of fears of a “coup attempt. By Shoigu’s clan.”
Analysts are exercising caution, indicating that the claims circulating in Russian media and various online platforms remain speculative and unverified.
The situation continues to evolve, and observers are closely monitoring the dynamics within Russia’s security establishment.
The Kremlin fears a coup attempt by Sergei Shoigu’s clan,” VChK-OGPU reported.
The paper reported, VChK-OGPU quoted a source stating: “The restrictions on cellular communication and the Internet in the centre of the capital and in some areas of Moscow suspiciously coincided with the beginning of investigative activities against the closest people to Shoigu and himself.
“The attempt to send Tsalikov, the ex-Minister of Defence’s closest friend and associate, to Lefortovo [prison] was accompanied by some kind of insane struggle at the top.
“And it ended with the fact that Tsalikov did not go to Lefortovo. Everything ended with accusations and house arrest.
“The next one after Tsalikov could only be Shoigu himself. And he still retains enough influence, both in the highest echelons of power and in the special services, the Ministry of Defence.”
