Former Russian Deputy Defense Minister Arrested for Fraud

Pavel Popov, a former Russian deputy defense minister, was detained on fraud charges related to the construction of Patriot Park, a military-themed attraction outside Moscow. He faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted, as investigations reveal he allegedly diverted state resources for personal use, including renovating his private residence with funds intended for the park. This arrest marks the eighth top military official caught in a corruption probe that has intensified within Russia's defense establishment, suggesting a significant crackdown on alleged graft. Earlier this month, two other officials, Major General Vladimir Shesterov and Vyacheslav Akhmedov, were also detained in connection with the same park. The Investigative Committee is examining Popov's wealth, which includes properties valued over 500 million rubles ($5.5 million). These developments follow President Putin's removal of defense minister Sergei Shoigu amid ongoing corruption scandals.