Russian President Vladimir Putin has replaced Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, appointing him to the Security Council and appointing Andrei Belousov as the new defense chief. This move comes amid a Cabinet shakeup as Putin begins his fifth term. Shoigu’s removal from his long-held position has been interpreted as a sign of displeasure over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The changes in the defense leadership reflect the challenges facing Russia in the war, which has seen setbacks and heavy losses. Meanwhile, intense fighting continues in Ukraine’s northeast, with Russian forces targeting multiple settlements and civilians fleeing the war zone.