Trending Now - Putin's Black Sea Palace Features Extensive Security Measures

WHO:

Vladimir Putin, 73, President of Russia

Alina Kabaeva, 42, former Olympic gymnast and Putin's partner

Sergei Shoigu, 70, former Minister of Defence and current secretary of the Kremlin’s security council

Ruslan Tsalikov, 69, ex-deputy defence minister

Proekt, independent media outlet

VChK-OGPU, channel linked to secret services

WHAT:

Putin is constructing a new high-security seaside palace in Sochi, replacing the former residence Bocharov Ruchey, which was bulldozed.

A 1.2 square mile lockdown zone has been established around the new palace.

The Federal Protective Service (FSO) has banned items resembling weapons, including drones, shooting clubs, and paintball venues.

Fishing and leisure boats are forbidden in nearby waters.

Putin owns a secret £1 billion clifftop retreat in Gelendzhik.

Putin's palaces typically include lavish spas, hospital facilities, multiple underground levels, and luxury bunkers.

An internet blackout in Russia is reportedly targeting security and military facilities.

WHERE:

Sochi, Russia

Gelendzhik, Russia

WHEN:

The construction of the new palace is ongoing as of 2026.

Putin hosted UK Prime Minister David Cameron at Bocharov Ruchey in 2013.

Sergei Shoigu was fired in May 2024.

WHY:

Putin is reportedly afraid to use the new palace due to threats from Ukrainian drones.

There are rumors of an imminent anti-Putin coup amid increasing insecurity as the war in Ukraine continues into its fifth year.

HOW:

Security measures include the establishment of a lockdown zone and the banning of various activities and items deemed threatening.

(UPDATED March 15, 2026 13:19 UTC)

In Sochi, President Putin is currently constructing a new high-security seaside palace, replacing the former residence that was bulldozed, and a 1.2 square mile lockdown zone has been established around the site. The Federal Protective Service has implemented strict security measures, banning items that resemble weapons and prohibiting fishing and leisure boats from nearby waters, as rumors of an anti-Putin coup circulate amid ongoing threats from Ukrainian drones. This new palace, like others owned by Putin, is expected to feature lavish amenities, while an internet blackout in Russia is reportedly targeting security and military facilities.