Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced the removal of his long-standing ally, Sergei Shoigu, as defense minister, a position he has held since 2012. Shoigu will be replaced by Andrei Belousov, the current deputy prime minister and an economist with little military experience. Belousov’s appointment is seen as a surprise, but analysts suggest it reflects Putin’s desire to align the Russian economy more closely with the war effort in Ukraine.
Shoigu, 68, will take on a new role as secretary of Russia’s Security Council, a powerful position that advises the president on national security matters. However, the move is seen as a demotion for Shoigu, who has been a close ally of Putin’s for many years.
The reshuffle is significant, as it comes at a time when Russia’s war in Ukraine is entering its third year, and the country is facing significant military setbacks and losses. The appointment of an economist as defense minister reflects the Kremlin’s changing priorities, as it seeks to boost efficiency in the armed forces and integrate military expenditure into Russia’s overall economy.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the proposed appointment of a civilian as defense minister shows the need for innovation in the role, and that Russia is becoming more like the Soviet Union in the mid-1980s, when a high proportion of GDP went on military spending.
Belousov, 59, is seen as a hard-line defender of the state and a close ally of Putin’s. He has a background in economics and has worked as an aide to Putin in the past. He is also a martial arts enthusiast and has practiced karate and sambo, a Russian combat sport.
The appointment of Belousov as defense minister is seen as a significant moment in Russian politics, as it comes at a time when the country is facing significant challenges both at home and abroad. Putin remains the ultimate decision-maker in Russia, and his choice of Belousov as defense minister reflects his desire to align the military with his economic goals.
