Russian President Vladimir Putin has increased the size of his personal security detail, adding more than two dozen officers to the Federal Protective Service (FSO) amid heightened concerns for his safety. The FSO's central apparatus has grown from 785 to 812 officers, marking the fourth expansion since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The FSO is responsible for safeguarding Russia's top leadership, including the president, his residences, and secure communications, as well as accompanying him on official trips. The agency also protects members of Putin's family and inner circle. The broader FSO organization is estimated to employ over 50,000 people.
This latest increase, which took effect on Wednesday, follows a trend of enhanced security measures surrounding the Kremlin leader. Prior to the invasion of Ukraine, the number of officers in the FSO's central apparatus had remained largely static for over a decade. Independent Russian media have reported a significant rise in the FSO's influence during the war, positioning it as one of the Kremlin's most powerful institutions.
European intelligence assessments suggest the FSO has implemented more stringent security protocols this year. These measures are reportedly a response to perceived threats from long-range Ukrainian drones, as well as concerns about potential coups or assassination attempts. Staff working in close proximity to Putin have reportedly been prohibited from using mobile phones and other internet-connected devices, as well as public transportation. Some individuals have had security systems installed in their homes, and even wristwatches have been banned in Putin's presence since mid-April, according to reports.
Service within the FSO is seen as a pathway to senior positions in Putin's inner circle. Alexey Dyumin, a former member of Putin's personal detail who later commanded the Special Operations Forces and served as deputy defense minister, is among the agency's notable alumni. He has served as secretary of Russia's State Council since 2024.
Despite its strong reputation, the FSO has experienced security breaches. In 2024, journalists used public fitness data uploaded by FSO officers to track Putin's movements, linking him to properties he has reportedly denied owning. The data also revealed security personnel movements prior to high-level diplomatic meetings.
The security expansion coincides with continued military actions in Ukraine. Russian forces conducted strikes on Kyiv on Thursday, hitting residential buildings with drones and missiles. Russian authorities stated the attacks were retaliation for recent assaults on its civil infrastructure. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had warned of potential overnight attacks and curtailed a visit to Dublin. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported that at least 10 people were killed and over 50 were wounded in the attacks, with significant damage to residential buildings and infrastructure across the city. Emergency services worked to clear rubble from a partially collapsed apartment building, and fires were reported throughout Kyiv.