Corruption Crackdown: Former Deputy Minister on Trial in Moscow

Timur Ivanov, a former Russian deputy defence minister, faces trial in Moscow for corruption involving 4.1 billion roubles. This marks a significant effort by President Putin to address military corruption during the ongoing war in Ukraine. Ivanov and his associate, Anton Filatov, deny the charges.

A trial in Moscow on Monday marks a significant moment in President Vladimir Putin's campaign against corruption within Russia's military. Former Deputy Defence Minister Timur Ivanov is at the center, arrested last year on charges of embezzling 4.1 billion roubles, primarily through foreign bank transfers.

Despite the gravity of accusations, Ivanov and his former subordinate, Anton Filatov, stand firm in their denials. TASS reported that Filatov has cooperated with investigators, even testifying against his former superior. Proceedings are conducted behind closed doors due to state secrecy concerns.

This trial is part of a broader crackdown, with over a dozen arrests including other former deputy defence ministers, as Putin aims to safeguard Russia's defence funds during the protracted conflict in Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies.)