By executing Prigozhin, Putin hastened his own demise – sociologist Yakovenko 

He stated it on Espreso.

Yakovenko stated, "Many within Putin's inner circle share this fear. Those who command significant armed forces entertain the idea that his rule could be ended through a special operation, a modern-day version of what led to the demise of Russian Emperor Paul I. It might not involve a snuffbox, a handkerchief, or a scarf, but something similar. I am confident that such thoughts are present among numerous members of the Russian elite."

According to Yakovenko, Putin has consolidated his power, but this has also raised the risk to his life.

"I have no doubt that many individuals, including generals, officials, and members of the FSB collegium, harbor such notions. This is why the high-profile execution of Prigozhin was necessary – to deter these thoughts from turning into action. To what extent he can mitigate this reality remains uncertain. Until February 24 of last year, such a scenario was considered extreme and unlikely, nearly ruled out. However, now it is a possibility. Putin has certainly solidified his control, but in doing so, he has increased the likelihood of such a fate," Yakovenko emphasized.

• According to Kyrylo Budanov, Russian President Vladimir Putin was last publicly seen in June 2022. 

• On August 31, Igor Girkin (Strelkov), a former military veteran of the self-proclaimed DPR army, expressed his intention to run for the Russian Federation's presidential elections in 2024.