High-Ranking Russian Ex-Defense Official Dmitry Bulgakov Arrested for Corruption

Dmitry Bulgakov, a former Russian deputy defense minister, has been arrested on corruption charges, according to the Federal Security Service (FSB). Bulgakov, who was dismissed in September 2022, is now in pre-trial detention. This is part of a broader anti-corruption sweep under new Defense Minister Andrei Belousov.

Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) has confirmed the arrest of Dmitry Bulgakov, a former deputy defense minister, on corruption charges, as reported by the Interfax news agency.

The RIA state news agency cited the FSB indicating that an investigation is ongoing to uncover the details of Bulgakov's alleged ‘illegal activities.’ Bulgakov has been placed in pre-trial detention in Moscow.

Bulgakov, dismissed in September 2022, was responsible for military logistics. His arrest is part of a larger crackdown under new Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, focusing on purging corruption and streamlining military finances amid the ongoing 'special military operation' in Ukraine.

This anti-corruption initiative commenced on April 23 with the arrest of Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov. Since then, at least five more high-ranking military officials have been detained. The Kremlin has minimized the previous arrests, indicating similar efforts are underway in other state agencies.

Bulgakov, 69, has an extensive military background, having received numerous accolades, including the Hero of Russia award. He served in various logistics roles in the Russian army before his dismissal as deputy defense minister.