Moscow, Russia – Russian President Vladimir Putin has made a significant change in the country’s military leadership by replacing his defense minister and close ally Sergei Shoigu with a civilian economist. This reshuffling comes more than two years after Russia’s involvement in the conflict in Ukraine, which has led to a surge in defense spending.
Andrey Belousov, a civilian with a background in economics who previously served as the first deputy prime minister, has been appointed as the new defense minister. This decision was announced by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Sunday.
Shoigu, who had been leading the defense ministry for 12 years and spearheaded the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, has been relieved of his position by presidential decree. However, he will continue to play a role in Putin’s administration as the Secretary of Russia’s Security Council.
The recent shake-up in the Russian military leadership coincides with Russia’s launch of a significant cross-border ground assault, marking one of the most serious military actions since Ukraine regained control of the northern Kharkiv region back in 2022. The decision also comes following months of intensified Russian air attacks and advancements in Donetsk in eastern Ukraine.
Critics of Shoigu have often criticized his management style, with some describing him as out-of-touch with the reality of the conflict. The late Wagner chief, Yevgeny Prigozhin, was one of Shoigu’s most vocal critics before his death last year in a plane crash following an unsuccessful mutiny.
Belousov’s appointment as the new defense minister is seen as a move towards fostering innovation within the defense ministry, given the rising defense budget that is approaching Cold War-era levels. According to Peskov, the emphasis on innovation is crucial in the current battlefield environment.
In his previous role, Belousov demonstrated strong leadership skills and a solid economic background. Peskov highlighted Belousov’s experience as the head of Russia’s Ministry of Economic Development and his role as an aide to the president on economic matters.
Additionally, the recent arrest of one of Shoigu’s close allies, deputy defense minister Timur Ivanov, on bribery charges added to the ongoing challenges within the Russian defense establishment. The reshuffling in military leadership and the corruption scandal have raised concerns about the effectiveness and transparency of Russia’s defense capabilities and decision-making processes.
Former US Secretary of Defense Mark Esper weighed in on Putin’s reshuffle, noting that it signifies Russia’s move towards a war economy and a continued focus on military readiness. Esper also expressed disappointment in the lack of progress in modernizing the Russian army under Shoigu’s leadership.
The changes in Russia’s defense leadership reflect a broader strategy to adapt to evolving geopolitical circumstances and enhance military capabilities in the face of ongoing conflicts and challenges. This shift underscores the importance of effective leadership and strategic decision-making within the defense establishment to ensure national security and stability.