Russian President Vladimir Putin declared on Thursday that anyone attempting to divide Russian society would face severe consequences, emphasizing the effectiveness and loyalty of the country’s law enforcement agencies.

Putin’s comments came amid an intensified crackdown on civil society, independent media, and opposition voices, as dissent and criticism of the Kremlin are met with harsh penalties, including long prison sentences.

In a video message released by the Kremlin, Putin stated, “Those who try to intimidate people, to split our society, to play on religious or national feelings will never succeed.” He warned of “inevitable and just retribution” for those who attempt to undermine societal unity.

Russia frequently uses such rhetoric to label critics of the Kremlin as Western agents or provocateurs. Putin’s remarks were made in conjunction with Russia’s “Investigation Officers’ Day,” where he honored the Investigative Committee and the FSB, the successor to the Soviet-era KGB. “Investigators show unconditional loyalty to the Fatherland and our people,” Putin asserted.

Critics argue that Russia’s focus on prosecuting political opponents has overshadowed real security threats. In March, over 140 people were killed in a Moscow concert hall in the country’s deadliest terror attack in nearly two decades. This tragedy occurred shortly after Western intelligence warnings, which Putin dismissed as “blackmail” intended to “destabilize our society.”

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack, but Russian officials attempted to link it to Ukraine without presenting concrete evidence. Most of Putin’s main opponents are either imprisoned or in exile, while dissent has been stifled and military criticism outlawed. Despite these measures, Putin maintains that Russian society is united in support of his actions in Ukraine.