In six months, more than 1100 sentences have been issued in Russia for terrorism cases - data from the 'First Department'

What William Browder says

According to ХВИЛЯ: In a monologue for The Sun, financier William Browder stated that the only scenario the Kremlin cannot suppress in advance is a massive spontaneous uprising. According to him, the authorities have almost run out of money, so control is maintained through fear and repression. Previously, discontent could be smoothed over with financial infusions, but now, as Browder notes, this tool is unavailable, and only forceful pressure remains.

Increase in the number of sentences

The 'First Department' project reports that in the first half of 2026, courts in Russia issued more than 1100 sentences for terrorism articles. This is 58% more than the previous year and an average of about 10 sentences daily. The main increase was driven by cases related to statements rather than real actions. Browder believes that the pressure will only increase - he does not rule out the possibility of exit visas reminiscent of the Soviet era.

‘If people decide to take the risk and go against the Kremlin, and a million people do this - it’s the end for Putin.’ - William Browder

The financier added that no one can calculate the point after which anger will outweigh fear in advance. However, in his opinion, it is precisely the oligarchs, the parties, and organized movements that are incapable of overthrowing Putin's power. At the same time, Browder acknowledges that the overthrow of the president in the near future is not the most likely scenario. Browder's comments and the statistics from the 'First Department' highlight the growing social tension in Russia: economic difficulties are forcing the authorities to tighten control. The increase in sentences under 'terrorist' articles indicates an attempt by the Kremlin to suppress possible protests, and Browder's words about a mass uprising suggest that in the case of citizens' unification, the regime could face a serious challenge. The material is based on data from the 'First Department' project and Browder's monologue for The Sun.

The rising number of sentences for terrorism-related charges reflects the Kremlin's strategy to maintain control through fear, as highlighted by Browder's analysis. This situation underscores the broader context of social unrest in Russia, where economic hardships are intensifying tensions. For a deeper understanding of how fear, rather than support for the government, keeps the populace compliant, you can read more about Browder's insights here.