Major Reshuffle in Russian Ministry of Defense
On Monday, June 17, Russian President Vladimir Putin enacted significant changes in the Russian Ministry of Defense. This shake-up saw the dismissal of four high-ranking officials, including First Deputy Defense Minister Ruslan Tsalikov, State Secretary - Deputy Defense Minister Nikolai Pankov, Deputy Minister Tatyana Shevtsova, and Army General, Deputy Minister Pavel Popov. The changes are part of a broader strategy to combat corruption and increase efficiency within the ministry.
Andrei Belousov, who assumed leadership of the ministry on May 14, met with the outgoing officials to thank them for their years of service. In their place, Leonid Gornin, Oleg Savelyev, Pavel Fradkov, and Anna Tsivileva were appointed to key roles. These appointments are seen as a move to bring in fresh perspectives and enhance the ministry's operations.
New Appointments and Their Roles
Leonid Gornin, previously the First Deputy Minister of Finance, has been appointed as the First Deputy Minister of Defense. His main responsibilities will include overseeing the financial support for the Russian Armed Forces, with a focus on increasing the transparency of financial flows and ensuring efficient spending of budget funds.
Pavel Fradkov, son of former Prime Minister Mikhail Fradkov, will manage property, land resources, and construction projects for the Ministry of Defense. His extensive experience in these areas is expected to bring significant improvements.
Anna Tsivileva, who is reportedly Putin's cousin and the wife of Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivlev, will focus on social and housing support for military personnel. She aims to transform and elevate the quality of these services, leveraging her experience from the Defenders of the Fatherland Foundation.
Oleg Savelyev, an ex-auditor of the Accounts Chamber, has also been appointed as a Deputy Minister of Defense. His role will likely involve auditing and ensuring the integrity of the ministry's financial practices.
These changes come amidst ongoing efforts by President Putin to eliminate waste and corruption within the ministry, especially in light of Russia's ongoing war effort in Ukraine. The recent arrests of several high-ranking officials on bribery charges underscore the seriousness of these reforms.
- The Ministry of Defense has outlined how the new deputies will distribute their powers. Leonid Gornin will handle all issues related to financial support for the Armed Forces. Pavel Fradkov will oversee property management and construction projects, aiming to optimize the use of land resources and improve infrastructure.
- Anna Tsivileva's appointment is particularly noteworthy due to her familial ties to President Putin. Her role will be crucial in enhancing the social and housing support for military personnel, which is a critical area given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Her previous work with the Defenders of the Fatherland Foundation has prepared her well for this role.
- Oleg Savelyev's background as an auditor will be valuable in ensuring that the Ministry of Defense operates with financial integrity. His appointment is part of a broader effort to increase transparency and accountability within the ministry.
- These appointments are part of a larger strategy initiated by Putin in May, which included the unexpected dismissal of former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. The reforms aim to streamline the ministry's operations and ensure that resources are used effectively to support Russia's military efforts.
