Putin Replaces Defense Minister Shoigu in Cabinet Shakeup

Russian President Vladimir Putin has made significant changes to his cabinet, replacing Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu with economist Andrey Belousov. Shoigu, a longtime confidant of Putin's and the country's longest-serving defense minister since 2012, will become head of the national security council. The move comes at a critical time in the conflict with Ukraine, where Russian troops are advancing in eastern regions. Andrey Belousov, a former deputy prime minister specializing in economics, has been appointed to replace Shoigu as defense minister. The Kremlin cited rising military spending and the need for "innovation" as reasons for the change. Belousov is expected to bring new ideas and perspectives to the ministry, with Putin stating that he wants a "person from civilian life" who will be open to innovations and cutting-edge ideas.