Ukraine: The Latest Exclusive: Russian elite living in fear as Putin purges take bloody toll & inside the ‘dark destroyer’ drone factory manned by teenagers
Jul 22, 2025
Memphis Barker, Senior Foreign Correspondent for The Telegraph, and Iain Duncan Smith, former British MP and opposition leader, discuss the chilling atmosphere among Kremlin insiders amid Putin's violent purges. They delve into a new drone factory staffed by teenagers and the implications for the Russian military. The conversation also touches on Ukraine's struggles with anti-corruption efforts and the impact of international sanctions. Amidst this turmoil, they reflect on the resilience of Ukrainian veterans and the critical role of international support.
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Russia's Drone Industry Struggles
- Russia's drone factory employs teenagers to meet drone production needs amid sanctions.
- Despite propaganda, Russia's military industry faces regression and technological stagnation under war pressures.
Fear Grips Russian Elite
- Kremlin insiders reveal growing fear after high-profile purges of elites in July 2025.
- Even powerful oligarchs feel unprotected and afraid due to abrupt shifts in war economy controls.
Putin's Purges Spread Isolation
- Current purges are limited in scale compared to Stalinist times but cause wide fear.
- Putin's old protectors no longer guarantee safety, isolating officials and businessmen.