Russian Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov faces serious charges of illegal patronage of two companies, which, according to investigators, helped them win government tenders. This was reported by Baza’s source in law enforcement agencies. According to investigators, instead of cash kickbacks, Ivanov received services: his flights, hotel accommodations were paid for, and security guards were provided.

According to information from Ivanov’s defense, the charges relate to his interactions with companies for which he allegedly made it easier to win tenders by providing the opportunity to work on less complex and more profitable projects. At the same time, the defense emphasizes that Ivanov could not directly influence the outcome of the auction, since the Ministry of Defense operates a system of open electronic auctions, where the offer with the lowest price wins.

In addition, the size of the bribe that, according to investigators, Ivanov received raises questions among his lawyers. They describe this amount as “cosmic” and assume that in reality it will be much less than stated.

Timur Ivanov, served as Deputy Minister of Defense, responsible for construction projects and repairs, and is currently under arrest, awaiting further proceedings in his case.