Russian Telegram channels are abuzz with speculation about potential high-level dismissals in the Kremlin. Among those reportedly at risk is Admiral Igor Kostyukov, head of the GRU military intelligence service, who may be approaching retirement. However, insiders suggest that President Putin’s final decision is still pending, as no official paperwork has been signed.
Secret Admiral
Kostyukov, who was allegedly promoted to the prestigious rank of Fleet Admiral in December via a discreet presidential decree, now finds himself in a precarious position. At 64, he is not yet at the mandatory retirement age, leaving the Kremlin searching for a “respectable” reason to ease him out. Meanwhile, his deputy, Andrei Fedorov, is reportedly maneuvering for the top GRU position, strengthening ties with Middle Eastern intelligence services to bolster his credentials.
Another One Bites The Dust?
Other GRU heavyweights, Vladimir Alekseyev and Andrei Averyanov, are also facing uncertainty. Alekseyev has yet to recover from the reputational blow inflicted by the short-lived Prigozhin mutiny, while Averyanov is said to have fallen out of favor following the lackluster performance of his “African Corps” initiative.
Media Chief On The Way Out?
Adding to the turmoil, speculation suggests that Alexey Gromov, the influential media strategist and first deputy head of the Presidential Administration, may step down this summer. Gromov, who turns 65 in May—the legal retirement age for state officials—could depart after the Victory Day celebrations. While President Putin has the authority to extend his tenure, sources indicate that such a move appears unlikely this time. Instead, Gromov is rumored to be transitioning into a comfortable position within a state corporation after his Kremlin departure.
Peskov Packing Up?
Even Dmitry Peskov, Putin’s seasoned press secretary, is not immune to the swirling rumors. Speculation suggests that his role may soon be assumed by Dmitry Kovalev, an aide with deep connections to the Kremlin’s inner circle. Kovalev is already rumored to be functioning as a “shadow press secretary,” selectively feeding information to journalists.
However, not everyone is convinced by these rumors. Kremlin-watchers caution that speculation regarding Gromov and Peskov may simply be the work of political adversaries. In Russian politics, intrigue and misinformation often go hand in hand.
For now, the Kremlin remains silent, leaving observers to question whether a significant shake-up is truly imminent or if these whispers are merely attempts to unsettle Putin’s inner circle.
