In the latest shake-up within Vladimir Putin’s inner circle, Nikolai Patrushev, a long-time confidant and ally, has been appointed as an official aide, succeeding Sergei Shoigu, who was ousted as head of Russia’s Security Council on Monday.
Patrushev, aged 72, shares a deep-rooted friendship with Putin dating back to their days in the KGB during the 1970s.
While this change might raise questions about Patrushev’s status, considering his previous prominence, his influence is expected to endure, reflecting the informal power dynamics prevalent in Russia’s political landscape.
Despite holding no specific job title, individuals like Patrushev maintain significant sway over Putin’s decisions, owing to their enduring camaraderie and shared history.
As the war in Ukraine underscores, Putin remains the ultimate decision-maker, with major strategic choices resting on his directives.
Patrushev is part of a select group of Putin loyalists, including Dmitry Patrushev, his son, who has recently been elevated to the position of deputy prime minister, prompting speculation about potential succession plans.
This reshuffling also saw Alexei Dyumin, a former bodyguard turned governor, assuming a role as presidential aide, with oversight over the defense industry.
Dyumin’s rise to prominence, fueled by past rumors linking him to pivotal events like the annexation of Crimea, underscores the influence wielded by individuals with close ties to Putin.
This cadre of loyalists continues to shape Russian politics, with their roles extending beyond formal titles to encompass strategic domains such as defense and security.
Amidst these changes, questions loom over the composition of Putin’s inner circle and its role in managing conflicts like the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.
Despite periodic shifts in personnel, the core dynamics of Putin’s power structure remain steadfast, underscoring the enduring influence of longstanding relationships forged in the corridors of Russian intelligence and politics.