In a notable shift within Russia’s military hierarchy, Vladimir Putin has ousted his longtime ally Sergei Shoigu from his position as defense minister, marking the most significant reshuffle since the onset of Russian military involvement in Ukraine over two years ago.
Announced unexpectedly, the Kremlin disclosed that Andrei Belousov, a seasoned economist and former deputy prime minister, will succeed Shoigu in this crucial role.
While being inaugurated for his fifth term as Russia’s leader recently, Putin suggested Shoigu assume leadership of Russia’s influential security council, currently overseen by Nikolai Patrushev, a trusted confidant known for his hawkish stance and close ties with Putin.
Shoigu, who held the position of defense minister since 2012 following his tenure as the emergency services minister, led Russia’s military through the full-scale invasion of Ukraine initiated in 2022.
Tasked with modernizing Russia’s armed forces, Shoigu enjoyed direct access to Putin, often accompanying him on hunting and fishing expeditions in Siberia.
He garnered popularity in Russia, particularly after orchestrating the contentious annexation of Crimea in 2014.
However, Shoigu faced mounting criticism for military setbacks post-February 2022 invasion and his failure to curb pervasive corruption within the armed forces.
Last summer, he confronted an armed uprising led by mercenary Yevgeny Prigozhin, who called for his arrest.
Shoigu’s standing further deteriorated when his confidant Timur Ivanov, a deputy defense minister, was arrested for large-scale corruption.
Sunday’s reshuffle nominally elevates Shoigu’s position within the security council, perceived by some as a face-saving measure orchestrated by Putin.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov justified Belousov’s appointment, citing the significant increase in Russia’s military expenditure.
Emphasizing the need to align security spending with the national economy, Peskov highlighted Putin’s vision for innovative leadership within the defense ministry.
Belousov, a distinguished graduate of Moscow State University’s Faculty of Economics, boasts a career devoid of military service, having served primarily in economic advisory roles within the government.
With Russia significantly ramping up its military-industrial output over the past two years, Belousov’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to streamline defense operations amid heightened financial scrutiny.
While Valery Gerasimov retains his role as chief of Russia’s general staff, the future role of Nikolai Patrushev, the longtime head of the security council, remains uncertain.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Patrushev’s role, it was announced earlier this week that his son, Dmitry Patrushev, would be promoted to deputy prime minister.
How KQ Pilot Capt Ann Mokua Died In Accident Along Thika Road, Nairobi
