Russian officials increasingly receive security due to Ukrainian operations
In the Russian Federation, the number of regions ordering security for regional and local leaders has risen.
This was reported by the Ukrainian Foreign Intelligence Service (SZRU) on Telegram.
According to intelligence data, the number of regions providing protection for local officials has grown significantly. Officially, this is explained as “general risks” in wartime, but the main reason is internal destabilization in Russia, caused by the mass return of military personnel from the frontlines.
“In 2021, security spending amounted to 59.7 million rubles; by 2023, the figure rose to a record 119.7 million. In 2024–2025, expenditures remained consistently high — over 100 million rubles per year,” the intelligence report states.
At the same time, local authorities’ fear contrasts with Kremlin budget policies, which have led to significant cuts in funding across various sectors.
“In 2026, federal spending cuts in Russia will affect at least 18 of 51 state programs. Cuts will hit healthcare, aviation, energy, and funding for temporarily occupied territories,” the Ukrainian intelligence service notes.
Recently, an assassination attempt occurred in Moscow targeting Lieutenant General Vladimir Alekseyev of Russia’s Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU). The attack involved small arms at close range.
General Alekseyev was reportedly almost killed in the attack.
