Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree appointing a new government, replacing the Defence Minister with an economics expert. Former Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov, known for his economics background, replaced Sergei Shoigu as Defence Minister. Shoigu was moved to head the National Security Council.
Putin’s decision to replace Shoigu comes amidst Russia’s military involvement in Ukraine, where Russian troops faced unexpected resistance. Shoigu was also shadowed by the recent arrest of Deputy Defence Minister Timur Ivanov on bribery charges. The reshuffle largely retains the previous Cabinet but includes new appointments to key positions like energy, sports, transport, industry, and agriculture ministries.