MOSCOW, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday announced a series of senior military appointments and changes within the Defense Ministry, saying the reforms would improve the military's organizational structure.
Speaking at a Kremlin meeting with Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces Valery Gerasimov, and commanders of the Center and East groups of forces, Putin said the ministry is continuing efforts to optimize its command and logistics system.
Putin said the ministry had recently consolidated responsibility for weapons procurement and supply under Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Sanchik, a former field commander. He also announced the appointment of Valery Solodchuk as deputy defense minister in charge of all rear and logistics services.
Putin also approved changes to the command of several frontline military groupings.
Andrei Ivanayev was appointed commander of the Center group of forces, which Putin said is responsible for carrying out key operations in the Donetsk region.
Pyotr Bolgarev was named acting commander of the Eastern Military District and commander of the East group of forces.
Putin also announced the appointment of Denis Lyamin, who previously served as chief of staff of the Center group of forces, to oversee the formation of Russia's newly established unmanned systems forces. ■