A third man has been detained in a bribery case involving one of Russia's most senior defense officials, according to Moscow's court service. Businessman Alexander Fomin is suspected of paying bribes to Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov and Ivanov's associate, Sergei Borodin. All three men are to remain in custody until at least June 23.
Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov, an ally of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, was jailed pending an investigation and trial on charges of bribery. Ivanov, who oversaw military construction projects, was previously accused of living a lavish lifestyle in anti-corruption investigations.
Ivanov, who was sanctioned by the United States and European Union in 2022 after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, faces allegations of receiving a “particularly large bribe” along with Fomin and Borodin. The offense is punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
According to court statements, Ivanov is accused of conspiring with third parties to receive bribes related to contracting and subcontracting work for the Ministry of Defense. Ivanov's lawyers maintain his innocence, stating that he is accused of accepting free construction and repair work on his personal properties.
The case against Ivanov and his associates has raised speculation about potential treason charges, but officials have denied these claims. Ivanov's arrest comes amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine and a renewed anti-corruption effort in Russia.
High-level corruption cases in Russia are rare, with few officials facing prosecution. Former Deputy Culture Minister Olga Yarilova is currently on trial for embezzlement, while former Economics Minister Alexei Ulyukayev served an eight-year prison sentence for bribery.
As the investigation into the bribery case continues, the implications for Russia's defense sector and anti-corruption efforts remain to be seen.
