Putin announces senior military appointments

Russian President Putin on Wednesday announced a series of senior military appointments and changes within the Defense Ministry, saying the reforms would improve the military's organizational structure.

Putin said the ministry had recently consolidated responsibility for weapons procurement and supply under Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Sanchik, a former field commander. He also announced the appointment of Valery Solodchuk as deputy defense minister in charge of all rear and logistics services. Putin also approved changes to the command of several frontline military groupings.