Russia 

Russian President Putin replaces Defense Minister Shoigu with economist Belousov amidst ongoing Ukraine conflict, signaling a shift towards innovation in military strategy. The shake-up comes at a crucial juncture as Russian troops advance in eastern Ukraine and launch a major ground operation in the Kharkiv region.

In a significant move, Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced the replacement of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu amidst the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. The decision comes after more than two years of military engagement in Ukraine, with Russian troops currently advancing in eastern regions and launching a major ground operation in the northeastern Kharkiv area.

Andrey Belousov, an economist, has been proposed as Shoigu's replacement. This choice underscores Putin's aim to infuse the defense ministry with innovative thinking, as stated by Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. Belousov, although lacking a military background, has been a prominent economic adviser to Putin for the past decade.

The timing of this change is crucial, given the evolving nature of the conflict. Despite initial setbacks, including the failure to capture Kyiv and retreats from certain regions, Putin had previously stood by Shoigu. However, the need for innovation and adaptability in military strategy appears to have prompted this decision.

Shoigu, who has served as defense minister since 2012, held a longstanding position of trust within Putin's inner circle. His reassignment to the role of secretary of the Security Council reflects a reshaping of leadership dynamics within the Russian government.

Valery Gerasimov, Chief of the General Staff, will retain his position overseeing daily military operations in Ukraine. Both Shoigu and Gerasimov had faced criticism from influential pro-offensive military circles for perceived failures in the conflict. Notably, Yevgeny Prigozhin, a paramilitary chief who called for Shoigu's removal, met an untimely demise in a plane crash following his dissent.

The shake-up in Russia's military leadership coincides with Putin's constitutional obligation to appoint new government ministers following his recent election victory. These changes come at a pivotal moment in the conflict, with tensions between Russia and the West escalating.

The conflict in Ukraine is framed by Putin as part of a broader "hybrid war" between Russia and the West. The outcome of these leadership changes could significantly impact the trajectory of the conflict and relations between Russia and its international counterparts.

As Russia navigates this critical juncture, the implications of Putin's decision to replace Shoigu reverberate both domestically and internationally. The road ahead remains uncertain, with the conflict in Ukraine continuing to shape geopolitical dynamics on a global scale.