Senior Russian security officials are attempting to persuade President Vladimir Putin to postpone Russia’s upcoming State Duma elections, according to a report published by Meduza on Wednesday, June 24. According to Meduza, the proposal is being promoted by senior Federal Security Service (FSB) officials and National Guard chief Viktor Zolotov, a longtime Putin ally and former bodyguard. The outlet cited two sources close to Russia’s presidential administration.JOIN US ON TELEGRAMFollow our coverage of the war on the @Kyivpost_official. One source said discussions about postponing – or effectively canceling – the elections began in spring 2026 amid growing economic pressures, rising prices and budget challenges. “Conducting elections under such conditions is a bold task,” the source told Meduza, arguing that worsening economic conditions could affect public support for the authorities. Security officials cite economy, falling ratings According to Meduza’s sources, proponents of delaying the elections have pointed to declining approval ratings for the ruling United Russia party and worsening economic conditions. One source said internal polling conducted by Russia’s Federal Protective Service (FSO) reportedly showed lower support levels than surveys conducted by state pollsters. The source claimed United Russia’s approval ratings were hovering around 35%, a figure that could make it difficult for the party to achieve the strong electoral result traditionally expected by the Kremlin.