According to Bloomberg, the reason for this was "a loss of faith in the Defense Ministry's ability to effectively manage military operations". Putin chose former economic aide and Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov as the new defense minister, believing that "war should be fought with a cold head." The 65-year-old Belousov was surprised by such a proposal from the president, the sources said.
According to the sources, Andrei Belousov did not hesitate to accept Putin's proposal because he sees him not only as a president but also as "a global figure changing the course of world history." Belousov was appointed to improve the army supply situation, which Shoigu was unable to solve. However, as Ruslan Pukhov, head of a Moscow analytical center, noted, Belousov is better known for "policy development rather than practical leadership or implementation of strategies."
Belousov's appointment underscores the importance of boosting defense production and overcoming Western sanctions. They have restricted Russia's access to critical components, especially high-tech materials.
"The problem is that any military activity entails a technological race in which the West has more opportunities than Russia, which has lost a lot in this area," notes economist Igor Lipsits, who previously worked with Belousov. According to him, Belousov will be tasked with rebuilding Russia's military-scientific complex.
Throughout his career, Belousov has been known for his restraint and competence as a technocrat, with no significant political ambitions.
