In the wake of Putin’s departure, Nikolai Patrushev has emerged as a central figure, showcasing an unwavering grip on authority and influencing the nation’s trajectory.

Patrushev maintains a hands-on approach, avoiding delegation and adamantly upholding personal control across a wide range of issues, raising questions about the sustainability of such governance.

Dmitry Patrushev grapples with challenges, notably navigating Russia through impending food crises, marked by significant grain losses and export obstacles at the Novorossiysk sea trade port.

Armed with credible information about Putin’s alleged substitution with a doppelgänger, elites are growing audacious, occasionally asserting their interests against Patrushev’s directives.

Dubious container operations, alleged smuggling, and drug trafficking, facilitated by individuals close to the late Putin, divert billions from the national treasury, raising questions about motivations amid chaos and sanctions.

“Politburo 2.0” discussions revolve around potential prime ministerial candidates and successors, reflecting the elite’s skepticism about the viability of Patrushev’s authoritative leadership and its future implications.