Putin replaces Shoigu with Belousov as defence minister in surprising move

Russian President Vladimir Putin has made a surprising move by proposing civilian Andrei Belousov as the new defense minister, replacing long-standing ally Sergei Shoigu. Belousov, a former deputy prime minister with expertise in economics, is set to take on the role more than two years into the ongoing Ukraine war.

Putin has also announced that Shoigu will transition to the role of secretary of Russia’s Security Council, taking over from Nikolai Patrushev. In addition, Shoigu will be responsible for the military-industrial complex. These changes, expected to be approved by parliament, mark the most significant shake-up in the military command since the start of the conflict in Ukraine.

The decision to appoint Belousov, a civilian official with a background in economic decision-making, has raised eyebrows. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov justified the move by stating that Russia’s current situation necessitates a focus on aligning military spending with overall national interests.

The shift in leadership is seen as a strategic move by Putin to ensure greater transparency and efficiency in defense spending, following allegations of corruption within the defense ministry. By bringing in a civilian with an economic background, Putin aims to modernize and optimize military expenditures.

The appointment of Belousov signals a shift towards a more innovative and economically-driven approach to defense strategy. As tensions continue to escalate in the region, Putin’s decision reflects a broader effort to adapt and strengthen Russia’s military capabilities in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.