Russian deputy defense minister arrested on corruption charges
Russian Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov faces bribery charges, marking Russia's most significant corruption scandal since President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine over two years ago.
Ivanov is accused of accepting a 1 million ruble bribe (approximately $10,800) and appeared in a Moscow court wearing military attire. He stands accused of taking part in a bribery scheme while working for the Defense Ministry. If found guilty, he could be sentenced to up to 15 years in prison.
Ivanov, who has held his position since 2016, is a key figure in Russia's actions in Ukraine and a close ally of Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu.
The arrest of Shoigu's ally raises questions about the defense minister's leadership, especially amidst criticism of his management of the Ukraine invasion. This criticism was notably expressed by Yevgeny Prigozhin, head of the Wagner group, before his passing last year. Despite challenges, Putin has retained Shoigu as defense minister.
Ivanov's duties included overseeing the reconstruction of Mariupol, a city in southern Ukraine heavily damaged by Russian forces during the conflict's early stages. He has been seen inaugurating various construction projects in Mariupol, part of Russia's effort to portray a positive image despite the devastation caused.
His opulent lifestyle has drawn attention within Russia and from Alexey Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (ACF). Maria Pevchikh, ACF's chair, criticized Ivanov's wealth, attributing it to corruption facilitated by his Defense Ministry role.
Last year, Pevchikh highlighted Ivanov's opulence, including owning a historic mansion in Moscow's affluent district. The ACF alleges that Ivanov profited significantly from the Ukraine invasion.
Ivanov faced sanctions from the European Union and the United States following Russia's actions in Ukraine. Despite this, his ex-wife, Svetlana Maniovich, continues to lead a luxurious lifestyle in Europe, engaging in activities like yachting and skiing.
An ACF investigation exposed Maniovich's extravagant spending, including a reported $100,000 shopping spree at a Parisian jewelry store while Mariupol was under siege. This suggests a lack of accountability for Ivanov's alleged misconduct and profiteering from the Ukraine conflict.
