In late September, the Great Khural regional parliament in Tyva convened to swear in its new deputies for the autumn session. One of the new deputies, Ruslan Tsalikov, a close ally of former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, was visibly upset when he was not nominated as Tyva’s senator in Russia’s upper-house Federation Council as he had expected. Shoigu had personally lobbied for Tsalikov’s nomination, but the matter was unexpectedly delayed, leading to a political scandal. The regional parliament announced that they had a month to appoint a senator, and Tsalikov’s nomination may be considered at a later session.
The incident highlights the fading influence of Shoigu, who was once one of Russia’s most popular government officials. Following his dismissal as defense minister and appointment as Security Council secretary, Shoigu’s position within the Russian government has become increasingly precarious. Criminal bribery cases against high-ranking Defense Ministry officials and generals who worked under him, as well as issues with the influential Vorobyov clan, have contributed to Shoigu’s diminishing standing. His absence from state media and clashes with his Security Council predecessor indicate a loss of power and influence in his current role.
Despite his unhappiness with his new position, Shoigu appears powerless to change his circumstances. Reports suggest that he has submitted his resignation letter to the Kremlin with the date left blank, and sources indicate that Putin has grievances against Shoigu for various failures during his time as defense minister. The lack of quality encrypted army communications, shortages of uniforms, and public scandals have tarnished Shoigu’s reputation in Putin’s eyes. While Shoigu has not yet resigned, speculation remains high about his future and the potential consequences he may face.
Russian political analyst Alexander Kynev believes that the visibility of issues such as problems in the Moscow region administration and Tsalikov’s appointment to the Federation Council suggest deeper underlying problems. The uncertainty surrounding Shoigu’s future, along with his diminished standing and potential conflicts with the Russian president, paint a concerning picture for his continued role within the government. Despite his past popularity and reputation, Shoigu’s current position appears to be at risk, and the unresolved issues surrounding his tenure as defense minister may have lasting consequences for his political career.
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