Sergei Shoigu, Russia's Minister of Defense, is replaced by Putin

On Sunday evening the Kremlin issued a statement about changes in roles within the Russian government. Andrey Belousov has been named as the defense minister taking over from Sergei Shoigu.

As per Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov Sergei Shoigu has been removed from his position as Minister of Defense by a decree. Additionally he has been appointed as the Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation through another decree. Peskov also mentioned that Shoigu will assume the role of Putins deputy, in the Military Industrial Commission of the Russian Federation.

Nikolai Patrushev, who previously held the position of Security Council Secretary has been relieved of his duties. Is reportedly transitioning to a new role as confirmed by Peskov.

Belousov had previously served as the deputy to the prime minister.