A Russian court ordered Timur Ivanov, one of Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu’s deputies, to remain in custody until June 23 on charges of bribery. Ivanov, 48, was detained at work by the Federal Security Service (FSB) for allegedly accepting significant bribes, marking a high-profile corruption case amidst President Vladimir Putin’s military involvement in Ukraine since 2022.
During his court appearance, Ivanov, shown in uniform inside a glass cage, denied the charges. The investigation alleges that Ivanov conspired with third parties to commit organized crime, intending to receive substantial benefits during contract and sub-contract work for the Ministry of Defence.
If convicted, Ivanov faces up to 15 years in prison. State media extensively covered the case, prompting speculation about internal power struggles and public efforts to combat corruption within Russia’s armed forces.
Ivanov, a close ally of Shoigu, oversaw property management, housing, construction, and mortgages at the defence ministry. His arrest is viewed as a significant blow to Shoigu, who is expected to retain his position in an upcoming government reshuffle.
The Kremlin confirmed that Putin and Shoigu were informed of the arrest, but the defence ministry declined to comment. Ivanov’s friend, Sergei Borodin, also faces charges related to bribery.
The investigation into Ivanov’s alleged corruption has been ongoing, with the FSB’s military counter-intelligence department involved. While some reports speculated about treason charges, the Kremlin dismissed them as unfounded.
Ivanov, previously the subject of journalistic probes, was known for a lavish lifestyle, as alleged by the Anti-Corruption Foundation. His wealth, linked to Russia’s security structures, drew attention from Forbes magazine and other investigations.
Putin recently instructed the FSB to address corruption in state defence procurement. Ivanov, with a background in mathematics, rose through Russia’s atomic energy sector before joining the Moscow region government under Shoigu’s governorship.
The case against Ivanov has sparked discussions among Russian military bloggers about corruption within the military ranks, particularly concerning Russia’s actions in Ukraine. The outcome of Ivanov’s trial is awaited with interest as it could signify broader shifts in Russia’s military and political landscapes.
