Sergei Ivanov, once seen as Putin's potential successor, dies at 73

Sergei Ivanov, a significant figure in Russian politics and a long-time confidant of President Vladimir Putin, has passed away at 73. The Kremlin confirmed his death without specifying a cause, though reports suggest he was battling a severe illness. Ivanov and Putin's paths first crossed in the 1970s during their service in the KGB in Leningrad. Their professional relationship continued to flourish as Putin ascended through the ranks of the federal government.

Ivanov held several key ministerial posts, most notably as defense minister from 2001 to 2007, during which he oversaw the conclusion of the second Chechen war. His prominence grew, and he was widely speculated to be Putin's chosen successor when Putin stepped down due to term limits in 2008. However, Dmitry Medvedev was ultimately selected for the interim presidency.

Despite not becoming president, Ivanov remained a close associate, serving as deputy prime minister and later as the powerful chief of staff of the presidential administration until 2016. He was then appointed to a role focused on environmental protection, ecology, and transportation, a position widely seen as an honorary retirement. He was dismissed from this post in February, shortly after his 73rd birthday, which is past the mandatory retirement age for civil servants. Ivanov had requested to be relieved of his duties, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.

Ivanov was among Russian officials sanctioned by the US and EU following Moscow's actions in Ukraine. He maintained a position on Russia's Security Council and also served as the honorary president of a basketball organization. He held the rank of retired colonel general.

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deep condolences