Russian President Vladimir Putin has nominated former First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov to replace longtime Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, the upper-house Federation Council announced on Sunday night.

The decision to oust Shoigu, a stalwart ally of Putin, comes on the heels of Putin's recent inauguration for a fifth term, further solidifying his over two-decade-long rule as Moscow continues its ongoing conflict with neighboring Ukraine.

Belousov, aged 65, brings a wealth of governmental experience, having served in various roles over the past decade, including economic development minister, presidential economic assistant, acting prime minister, and first deputy prime minister.

Responding to concerns about Belousov's lack of military background, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized the potential benefits of having a civilian official lead the Defense Ministry, citing the opportunity for innovation and the integration of advanced economic ideas.

Meanwhile, Putin has also dismissed Security Council chief Nikolai Patrushev, a significant figure in Putin's inner circle, who will be reassigned to a new role, according to a presidential decree. Shoigu is set to assume Patrushev's position as head of the Security Council, which oversees strategic and national security matters.

Further details regarding Patrushev's new assignment are expected to be revealed by the Kremlin in the coming days.

Shoigu's departure from the Defense Ministry comes in the wake of several setbacks in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, including internal challenges such as the mutiny by the Wagner mercenary group in 2023 and the recent arrest of Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov on bribery charges.

Despite the major shake-up in the Defense Ministry, most other top officials retained their positions, with Putin reaffirming appointments such as Sergei Lavrov as foreign minister and Alexander Bortnikov as head of the Federal Security Service (FSB). (ILKHA)