Putin remains popular and there has been no significant social unrest. However, in April, Putin announced the creation of a new National Guard, which will be accountable directly to him. The National Guard will take control of OMON, Russia’s riot police, and SOBR, the country’s SWAT forces. The creation of this new force under Putin’s direct control signals that the president is highly concerned about internal stability, and perhaps even about the reliability of Russia’s elites and security services.

 

David Fuller's view

Leaders become less popular with time, and especially hard times.  Putin has been respected by Russians for creating order following the breakup of the Soviet Union and also the Yeltsin years.  However, as a tough leader with a KGB background he is more feared than respected, particularly by people with influential positions.  They dare not criticise Putin publicly, but widespread dissatisfaction is the likely cause for increased security forces under his direct control.