"Russian Power Play: Smear Campaigns, Purges, and Raids Unveiled"

Russian President Vladimir Putin is employing a smear campaign against Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner Group, in an effort to solidify his authority. Public opinion against Prigozhin dropped significantly after a brief mutiny against the Kremlin. Putin has directed the dismantling of Prigozhin's business empire, including military operations and internet troll farms. State media has published images from a police raid on one of Prigozhin's homes, aiming to discredit his image. While Putin initially suggested dropping criminal charges against Prigozhin in exchange for exile, the mercenary leader appears to still be in Russia. Polling shows a decline in favorability towards Prigozhin, but little damage to Putin's reputation. The Kremlin's control over media and the suppression of critical speech in Russia contribute to the manipulation of public opinion. Putin's actions are seen as an attempt to reestablish his strength and competence.