**Putin Fires Transport Minister Amid Chaos in Russia’s Aviation and Shipping Sectors**
Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed Transport Minister Roman Starovoit, citing no reason for the move. However, this decision comes at a time when Russia is facing a series of disruptions to its aviation and shipping sectors.
On July 5-6, nearly 300 flights were grounded at major Russian airports due to security threats from Ukrainian drone attacks. This incident is just one part of Ukraine’s broader strategy to undermine Russia’s logistics far beyond the front line. The impact on civilian air travel has been significant, with many passengers facing delays and cancellations.
Furthermore, an explosion aboard the Eco Wizard tanker at the Ust-Luga port in Leningrad Oblast caused an ammonia leak on July 6, prompting an emergency response. While Russian authorities have downplayed this incident, saying it was “minor,” the pro-Kremlin Telegram channel Baza has reported that an unexplained explosion preceded the incident.
The Eco Wizard tanker is believed to be part of Russia’s shadow fleet – a network of vessels used to bypass international sanctions on Russian oil and chemical exports. Five tankers have been damaged by explosions at Russian ports since the start of 2025, highlighting the challenges faced by Russia in maintaining its shipping infrastructure.
Starovoit, who was sanctioned by Ukraine and Western countries for his role in the war against Ukraine, had served as governor of Russia’s Kursk Oblast before being appointed transport minister in May 2024. His departure has sparked speculation about who will replace him, with Deputy Transport Minister Andrei Nikitin emerging as a leading candidate.
The Kremlin has not made a formal statement on the minister’s dismissal, but the move is likely to be seen as a response to the growing chaos in Russia’s aviation and shipping sectors. As tensions between Ukraine and Russia continue to escalate, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact the already fragile logistics situation in both countries.
**What’s Next?**
The removal of Transport Minister Roman Starovoit has significant implications for Russia’s aviation and shipping sectors. With the country facing a series of disruptions due to Ukrainian drone attacks and explosions at Russian ports, Putin’s decision may be seen as an attempt to regain control over these critical infrastructure areas.
However, the impact on civilians remains uncertain. Passengers who have faced delays and cancellations in recent days will likely be watching closely to see how this decision affects their travel plans. Meanwhile, Russia’s shadow fleet is facing increased scrutiny, with five tankers damaged by explosions at Russian ports since the start of 2025.
As tensions between Ukraine and Russia continue to escalate, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact the already fragile logistics situation in both countries.
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