Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided to replace long-standing ally Sergei Shoigu as defence minister, with the 68-year-old set to take over as the head of Russia’s Security Council. This decision comes as part of a broader shift in Russia’s leadership, with Shoigu being replaced by economist Andrei Belousov, who has little military experience.
Shoigu has been a key figure in Russia’s war with Ukraine, but his tenure as defence minister has faced criticism for his lack of military background and performance after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. His replacement by Belousov is seen as a move to align the Russian economy more closely with the war effort.
According to Kremlin press spokesman Dmitry Peskov, the role of defence minister requires innovation and integration of military spending into the overall economy as Russia adopts a more militaristic approach similar to the Soviet Union in the 1980s. The appointment of Belousov, known for his hard-line stance on state defense and closeness to the Russian Orthodox Church, reflects President Putin’s shifting priorities.
While some analysts view the replacement of Shoigu as a sign of weakness due to military setbacks in Ukraine, others see it as a strategic move to boost the defense ministry’s financial resources for the ongoing conflict. Belousov’s background as a martial arts enthusiast and his past work with Putin suggest a commitment to defending Russian interests and supporting the country’s military efforts.
The reshuffling of top government positions in Russia also includes the retention of veteran Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, highlighting the continuity of key figures in Putin’s administration amidst these changes.
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