In a surprise reshuffle of Russia's cabinet, President Vladimir Putin has ousted long-serving defense minister Sergei Shoigu and replaced him with Andrei Belousov, an economist without military experience. This change is announced as Putin begins his fifth term, and comes amid ongoing Russian military operations in Ukraine.
Why Shoigu was replaced
Sergei Shoigu has been a key figure in Russian politics, particularly noted for his role in the military actions in Ukraine. His dismissal follows the arrest of his deputy, Timur Ivanov, on bribery charges, suggesting internal discord and possibly a wider purge within the military ranks. However, Shoigu remains in Putin's inner circle, reassigned as the secretary of Russia's Security Council, reflecting continued trust and influence despite his removal from the Defense Ministry.The Kremlin described the Cabinet overhaul as part of a strategy to align the defense ministry's operations more closely with the broader economic needs of the country. Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, emphasized the need for the defense ministry to be innovative and integrate its budget with national economic objectives. "The battlefield is won by whoever is more open to innovation," Peskov said, signaling a shift towards economic efficiency in military operations. "It is very important to integrate the economy of the [military] into the national economy," Peskov added.Who is Andrei Belousov?
Andrei Belousov, aged 65, comes from an economics background, having served as Deputy Prime Minister and an influential economic advisor to Putin.Belousov has held significant positions in economic planning and development within the Russian government, and briefly assumed the role of Prime Minister during Mikhail Mishustin’s illness in 2020.Known for his focus on economic strategies, Belousov's appointment underscores a shift towards integrating defense spending with national economic policies.Global and domestic reactions
This leadership change occurs as Russian forces continue their offensive in Ukraine, suggesting potential shifts in military strategy and spending. Analysts are watching closely how Belousov will handle the Defense Ministry’s budget amidst the extensive demands of ongoing military operations.The appointment of Belousov requires confirmation by Russia's upper house, the Federation Council, which is expected to follow through swiftly given the controlled political environment under Putin. The international community and defense analysts are keenly observing this development, considering its implications for the conflict in Ukraine and Russia’s future military engagements.This reshuffle reflects Putin’s strategy to fortify his administration with loyalists who align with his economic and military objectives, particularly as Russia faces prolonged engagements in its near-abroad.As the new defense minister, Belousov’s approach to the ongoing military conflict and his management of the defense budget will be critical in determining the trajectory of Russia’s military strategy. Meanwhile, Shoigu's new role in the Security Council is seen as a strategic move to retain his expertise and influence within the government, ensuring continuity in Putin's security policies.(With inputs from agencies)
