A Russian deputy defense minister, Timur Ivanov, has been charged with accepting a bribe of 1 million rubles (approximately $10,800), making it the highest-profile corruption scandal in Russia since President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine over two years ago. Ivanov, who appeared in a Moscow court dressed in full military attire, is accused of receiving the bribe as part of an organized group while working for the Defense Ministry. If convicted, he could face up to 15 years in prison.
Ivanov, a senior figure in Russia's war in Ukraine and a close ally of Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu, was dismissed from his position in the defense ministry following the charges. The arrest of Ivanov, an ally of Shoigu, may put additional pressure on the defense minister, who has faced criticism for his handling of the invasion of Ukraine.
The arrest of high-ranking officials like Ivanov is seen as a tactic by Russia's security service, the FSB, to crack down on rule-breaking within organizations. Ivanov's responsibilities included the reconstruction of Mariupol, a city in southern Ukraine devastated by Russian forces during the war.
His lavish lifestyle and alleged corruption have drawn scrutiny, with accusations of his wealth being funded by corrupt practices. Ivanov was sanctioned by the European Union and the United States following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Despite the charges against him, his ex-wife continues to live a life of luxury in Europe.
The case against Ivanov highlights the ongoing battle against corruption in Russia and the repercussions faced by high-ranking officials involved in illicit activities.
