Putin Nominates Economist Belousov as New Defence Minister

May 13, 2024

Russian President Vladimir Putin has nominated Andrei Removich Belousov as the new defence minister. Belousov, a civilian with extensive background in economics, has been chosen for this significant military role over two years into the conflict with Ukraine.

Background of Andrei Belousov

Andrei Belousov, aged 65, is highly educated, having graduated with distinction from the Faculty of Economics at Moscow State University in 1981. He has a robust academic background in economic models, evident from his defended dissertation on the modelling of interrelated economic processes.

Professional Career

Commencing his influence in governmental roles, Belousov became a non-staff adviser to the Russian prime minister in 2000. By 2006, he transitioned to the role of deputy minister in the economy ministry. Between 2008 and 2012, he was the director of the department for economics and finance within the government, aligning with Putin’s tenure as prime minister.

He escalated his career further by serving as the economics minister from 2012, and later as adviser to the president from 2013 to 2020. Recently, he held the position of first deputy prime minister since 2020.

Interim Prime Minister Role

During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin contracted the virus, Belousov temporarily assumed the prime minister’s responsibilities, ensuring continuity in government operations.

Influence on Digital Policy

Belousov was reported by RBC in 2017 as a key figure in influencing President Putin to value the digital economy and blockchain technology as critical for Russia’s future.

Personal Insights and Ideologies

Belousov has expressed pointed views on national identity and sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of Russia forging a strong, self-sufficient identity. His personal ideologies seem to reflect a blend of economic focus and nationalistic sentiment.

Military and Personal Background

Unlike typical defence ministers, Belousov did not serve in the armed forces. However, he has engaged in martial arts such as sambo and karate during his youth. Known to be close to Putin, his appointment is seen as strategically significant, highlighting a possible shift or new approach in how Russia intends to handle its defence strategy amid ongoing conflicts.

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