In a surprise move, Russian President Vladimir Putin has removed Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu from his position and appointed Andrei Belousov as his replacement, according to information shared by the Russian Senate on its official Telegram channel and state media. Belousov, a civilian with a strong economic background, has held various roles in economic development and advisory positions.
Putin’s decision to remove Shoigu comes after several years of him holding the Defense Ministry post. Shoigu will now be appointed as the secretary of the State Council – Senate by Putin’s decree. Kremlin spokesman Dimitri Peskov announced that Shoigu will also serve as Putin’s representative for the Senate commission on the military-industrial complex and supervise the Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation.
The move signals Putin’s focus on modernization and economic development, with a strong emphasis on national security and defense. Belousov has been responsible for socioeconomic development and financial policies since 2020, which is likely why he was chosen for this new role. Peskov emphasized the need for openness to innovation within the Ministry of Defense to enhance economic competitiveness, citing Belousov’s successful leadership in the Ministry of Economic Development as the reason for his appointment.
Putin plans to confirm several other key ministers and directors in their positions, including the Minister of the Interior, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and heads of intelligence and security agencies. The reshuffling within the Russian government reflects Putin’s commitment to advancing Russia’s economic and military interests on the global stage.
Belousov has been praised for his expertise in economic policy making, which could help Putin achieve some of his goals in modernizing Russia’s economy. The appointment also shows Putin’s willingness to bring in new blood into key positions that have been held by old stalwarts.
Overall, this shakeup within Russia’s government is a strategic move that reflects Putin’s priorities moving forward towards modernization and economic growth while maintaining national security interests at home and abroad.
