Putin Expands Security Detail: Federal Protection Service Staff to Reach 812.

Federal Protection Service Personnel Changes

According to Espreso.tv: Starting July 1, 2023, the Federal Protection Service (FSO) will see its combined military and civilian workforce increase from 785 to 812 individuals, according to a draft decree. This document, which also outlines organizational restructuring within the agency, is scheduled to take effect on that date.

It is worth noting that the FSO's staffing levels have been adjusted multiple times in recent years. On December 31, 2022, the number rose from 725 to 760. Subsequently, in January 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree raising the count to 775 effective January 1, 2024. By January 1, 2025, the FSO's personnel numbers are set to return to 785.

Long-Standing Staffing Stability and Security Concerns

Remarkably, the FSO's staffing levels remained static from March 2010 through December 2022. When originally established in 2004, the service had a maximum of 600 personnel. In recent years, security surrounding President Putin has become a heightened priority, as evidenced by reports of increased protective measures in May 2026.

This expansion of the FSO suggests a growing emphasis on top-level security in Russia, particularly amid ongoing domestic and international political tensions. The increase follows a series of prior adjustments to the agency's structure, likely driven by the need to respond to emerging security challenges.

It is important to note that such decisions can also impact the country's overall budget and resource allocation—a significant consideration given current economic conditions.