Putin replaces defense minister as part of Cabinet shakeup
Government Reshuffle Follows Putin’s Fifth Term in Office
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday replaced Sergei Shoigu as defense minister in a Cabinet shakeup that comes as he begins his fifth term in office. In line with Russian law, the entire Russian Cabinet resigned Tuesday following Putin’s glittering inauguration in the Kremlin, and most members have been widely expected to keep their jobs, while Shoigu’s fate had appeared uncertain. Putin signed a decree on Sunday appointing Shoigu as secretary of Russia’s Security Council, the Kremlin said. The appointment was announced shortly after Putin proposed Andrei Belousov to become the country’s defense minister in place of Shoigu.
Ukrainian Shelling Spurred Shoigu’s Transition
The announcement of Shoigu’s new role came as 13 people were reported dead and 20 more wounded in Russia’s border city of Belgorod, where a 10-story apartment building partially collapsed after what Russian officials said was Ukrainian shelling. Ukraine hasn’t commented on the incident.
New Defense Minister’s Candidacy Awaits Approval
Belousov’s candidacy will need to be approved by Russia’s upper house in parliament, the Federation Council. It reported Sunday that Putin introduced proposals for other Cabinet positions as well but Shoigu is the only minister on that list who is being replaced. Several other new candidates for federal ministers were proposed Saturday by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, reappointed by Putin on Friday.
Belousov’s Background and Fit for the Role
Belousov, 65, held leading positions in the finances and economic department of the prime minister’s office and the Ministry of Economic Development. In 2013, he was appointed an adviser to Putin and seven years later, in January 2020, he became first deputy prime minister. Peel, Russian defense minister hopes to continue work towards an innovative and cost-effective defense system that aligns with the country’s wider economy.
Shoigu’s Move to Russia’s Security Council
Shoigu’s new appointment to Russia’s Security Council indicates Putin’s inclination to retain key political figures close to him. People like Dmitry Medvedev, former Russian President, have also been appointed to the security council. Moscow will reveal soon the details regarding Nikolai Patrushev’s new position after stepping down from the council. Shoigu, widely seen as influential, had played a significant role in the Russian decision to send troops into Ukraine.
Impact and Authoritativeness of Shoigu’s New Deputy Position
Although Shoigu does not hold the same level of influence as Patrushev, his position as secretary of Russia’s Security Council is considered to carry significant authority. It will still oversee the handling of high-level security materials. The new council with its revamped structure is reflective of Putin’s aim to usher in innovation and modern ideas within its institutions.
Thousands Flee as Ground Offensive Intensifies
Amidst the shakeup in the Russian Cabinet, thousands of civilians have been forced to flee Ukraine’s northeast regions due to Russia’s renewed ground offensive. Russian forces have targeted several towns and villages with artillery and mortar shelling, resulting in the displacement of a significant population. The ongoing intense battles have led to Ukrainian troops retreating from the Kharkiv region.
Exploiting Ammunition Shortages and Strategic Gains
Ammunition shortages and Ukrainian forces’ exhaustion, caused by Russia’s disproportionate fire and infantry assaults, have allowed Russian forces to progressively advance and gain territory. The push by Russian troops, concentrating force in the Kharkiv region, intends to both exploit the ammunition shortage and pin down Ukrainian forces in the northeast. Russian forces have been relentless in their attacks, targeting energy infrastructure and settlements since March, signaling their intent to shape conditions for a significant offensive.
Source: AP News
