IIRC, there are two competing theories around; EITHER the Kremlin is a strict hierarchy, with Putin as the ultimate kingpin. If that is the case, then all assassinations are carried out at his command. OR, the Kremlin is a market place of competing silovik factions where certain cliques might carry out hits without consulting Putin first, loosely motivated by showing the other factions how badass they are. Not sure which version I find scarier.
IIRC, there are two competing theories around; EITHER the Kremlin is a strict hierarchy, with Putin as the ultimate kingpin. If that is the case, then all assassinations are carried out at his command. OR, the Kremlin is a market place of competing silovik factions where certain cliques might carry out hits without consulting Putin first, loosely motivated by showing the other factions how badass they are. Not sure which version I find scarier.