Kremlin Promotes Ukraine War Veterans to Key Government and Political Roles
The Kremlin is actively integrating Ukraine war veterans into various levels of government and political structures, cultivating a new 'proto-elite' to fill future vacancies and reinforce Russia's militarized course. This initiative, spearheaded by programs like 'Time of Heroes,' has led to thousands of veterans, both actual and nominal, securing political or government positions. This marks a significant shift in Russian cadre policy, moving away from a preference for technocrats towards individuals whose political credentials are derived from their involvement in the war. President Putin has explicitly stated his intention to draw a 'genuine elite' from contract soldiers and mobilized servicemen who fought in Ukraine, preparing them for civilian posts across education, state-owned enterprises, business, and state and municipal administration. This strategy aims to replace parts of the older elite and staff the state for a prolonged period of active conflict. The integration process involves federal and r...
