President Vladimir Putin has made a significant change in the Russian government by appointing Andrei Bulyga, who has been serving as one of Russia’s deputy defense ministers since last year, as Deputy Secretary of the country's powerful Security Council.

This appointment was revealed through two decrees published on the Kremlin's official website on Saturday.

In the same move, Putin appointed Colonel-General Alexander Sanchik to the position of deputy defense minister, effectively replacing Bulyga in this role.

Bulyga, who held the rank of Lieutenant-General in the Russian army, had been serving as Deputy Minister in charge of logistical support since March 2024.

Bulyga's appointment to the Security Council comes amid a series of high-profile corruption cases that began in April 2024, with over a dozen individuals, including three former deputy defense ministers, arrested for charges ranging from embezzlement to bribe-taking.

This series of arrests has been part of a broader effort to address alleged corruption within the Russian military.

Additionally, Sergei Shoigu, who has served as Russia’s long-time Defense Minister, was appointed Secretary of the Security Council in May 2024.

This appointment occurred during a period when the Russian forces were facing criticism for their performance in Ukraine, particularly regarding allegations of mismanagement and inefficiency within the military ranks.

The changes in the leadership and personnel within the defense and security sectors reflect ongoing efforts by the Kremlin to enhance operational efficiency, combat corruption, and strengthen national security.

These moves underscore President Putin’s strategy to maintain stability and control over key government institutions amid both internal challenges and international pressures.