French President Emmanuel Macron has warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin is "a predator" and "an ogre at our gates," stressing that Russia poses a serious and ongoing threat to Europe. The remarks came during an interview with French news channel LCI on August 19, as Macron discussed the broader context of the conflict in Ukraine and the prospects for future negotiations.
The revelation that Putin is apparently forming mysterious private armies across the country to protect himself from potential attack is telling in that it demonstrates the mistrust and paranoia potentially overwhelming the Russian leader. Putin has added extra layers to his own personal security, while these new units have allegedly been tasked with protecting the state border, fighting illegal armed groups, and combating foreign sabotage.
So, exactly how vulnerable is Putin feeling? Click through and take a look at the people and apparatus charged with protecting the Russian president.