Former Deputy Defense Minister Ruslan Tsalikov has been arrested in Russia.
He is suspected of involvement in corruption, embezzlement of public funds and money laundering.
According to preliminary information from investigative authorities, the case is related to the misuse of financial resources in the defense sector, one of the most important and best-funded institutions of the Russian state, media reports.
Ruslan Tsalikov served as the first deputy to former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and was considered one of his closest and most trusted associates. For many years, he played a significant role in the administration and management of the ministry's financial and logistical projects.
His arrest is seen by analysts as a significant development within the top defense structures in Russia, as Tsalikov was an influential figure in the military and administrative system.
The investigations are expected to focus on state contracts, the distribution of large defense funds, and possible links to corruption networks within state institutions.
Russian authorities have not yet provided full details on the case, but sources close to the investigation say the process could expand and include other officials suspected of involvement in similar financial schemes.
