Budanov reported who in Russia has the greatest influence on Putin’s decisions

Budanov reported who in Russia has the greatest influence on Putin’s decisions

As of today, the entourage of the Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, which shapes his opinion and helps him make decisions, has not changed.

This was shared by the head of the DIU of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, Kyrylo Budanov, in an interview.

"The only change is that Shoigu’s role has significantly diminished. That’s the only change, while the role of Patrushev (assistant to the President of the Russian Federation, Nikolai Patrushev - UNIAN) hasn’t undergone significant changes. This is such an interesting moment," noted the lieutenant general.

Budanov emphasizes that the position of the Secretary of the Security Council of Russia remains crucial in Russian power, but Shoigu has simply been limited in influence in this position.

"And you know an interesting thing, that Patrushev’s office is located in the Kremlin. And it used to be at a different address. I’m telling you, things are not as simple as they seem at first glance. Changes have been brewing; they did what they did. But Shoigu did not become Patrushev. He can’t even appoint his own deputies," explained Budanov.

The head of the DIU also evaluated the work of the new Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov.

"Let’s be honest, it delivers results. They have managed to slightly reduce the level of embezzlement in the Russian army, they really have. It exists, but it has decreased. More resources are being directed toward the development and support of the Russian armed forces, and so on. Well, that’s what’s on the surface," noted Kyrylo Budanov.