Putin dismisses Oleg Salyukov from post of Ground Forces Commander

Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed Oleg Salyukov from the position of Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Ground Forces and appointed him as Deputy Secretary of the Security Council of the country. This was reported in an official decree by the Kremlin.

"Oleg Leonidovich Salyukov is to be dismissed from his position and appointed as Deputy Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation," — the presidential decree states.

Career: from the army to the council

Colonel General Oleg Salyukov has many years of military experience. He served as commander of the troops of the Far Eastern Military District from 2008 to 2010, and from 2010 to 2014 he was Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces.

In May 2014, by presidential decree, he was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Ground Forces. He held this post for nearly 10 years and actively participated in several military reforms.

In 2023, Salyukov was also assigned the responsibilities of Deputy Commander of the Unified Grouping of Russian Troops in Ukraine.

Last step at the parade and age limit for service

On May 9, 2025, Salyukov personally led the major military parade on Red Square dedicated to the 80th anniversary of Victory. Many viewed this as his final major public appearance in the army.

For reference, Salyukov will soon turn 70. According to the law, officers of this age must leave active military service. His transfer to the Security Council is being seen as a personnel shift linked to this age limit.

Sanctions and new role format

Due to Russia’s military actions in Ukraine, Salyukov has been personally included in the sanctions lists of several Western countries.

Now he will work in the Security Council of the Russian Federation, which has been led by former Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu since 2024. This council is one of the country’s main bodies for making decisions on strategic domestic and foreign policy matters.

Zamin.uz editorial team will continue to monitor what changes this appointment may bring to Russia’s political and military system. How do you assess Salyukov’s new position? Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!