Vyacheslav Gladkov Resigns as Governor of Russia’s Belgorod Region

The Kremlin has announced the resignation of Vyacheslav Gladkov as the governor of Russia’s Belgorod region, a position he held since 2021. President Vladimir Putin accepted Gladkov’s voluntary resignation and appointed Alexander Shuvaev, a 45-year-old deputy governor from the Irkutsk region and a veteran of the war in Ukraine, as the acting head of the region. Gladkov’s tenure was marked by the transformation of Belgorod into a frontline area following the onset of full-scale war, during which he maintained high visibility by reporting on attacks and engaging with residents. He occasionally criticized federal decisions, such as internet restrictions that hindered emergency alerts. Rumors of his departure circulated in April 2026, citing declining public support and quality of life issues. Prior to his official resignation, Gladkov took extended leave. Speculation regarding his future role includes potential appointments as deputy minister of economic development or ambassador to Abkhazia. This leadership change occurs amidst ongoing security challenges in the border region, including previous incursions by anti-Kremlin armed groups.