Russian authorities have arrested another high-ranking official from the Defense Ministry on charges of bribery, according to a statement released by the Investigative Committee. Lt. Gen. Yury Kuznetsov, the chief of the ministry’s main personnel directorate, has been placed in custody pending investigation and trial for allegedly accepting a large bribe. The authorities conducted searches at Kuznetsov’s home and other properties, and seized gold coins, luxury items, and over $1 million in cash.
This arrest comes shortly after President Vladimir Putin replaced the former defense minister, Sergei Shoigu, in a Cabinet shake-up as he begins his fifth term in office. Shoigu has been moved to a new role as secretary of Russia’s Security Council, with Andrei Belousov proposed as the new defense minister. Many anticipate further purges within the ministry under Belousov’s leadership.
Shoigu’s deputy, Timur Ivanov, was arrested last month on similar bribery charges, leading to speculation of impending dismissals within the ministry. Shoigu has been a key figure in Putin’s decision to send Russian troops into Ukraine, a move that has faced unexpected setbacks as Ukrainian forces have mounted a strong defense, driving Russian forces out of certain regions.
Belousov’s appointment as defense minister is pending approval from the upper house of Russia’s parliament, though it is expected to be confirmed without issue. Despite these changes and ongoing controversies, Putin’s administration remains focused on managing the situation in Ukraine and navigating the challenges it presents.
