Russian President Vladimir Putin accepted the sudden resignation of Vasily Golubev, the longtime governor of Rostov.
Among Russia’s Longest-Serving Governors
Rostov is a key region in Russia impacted by both Ukrainian drone strikes and a recent uprising by the Wagner Group, according to Hotnews.
Rostov, situated about 620 miles south of Moscow and bordering Ukraine, has become a strategic target for Ukraine, which has launched multiple drone attacks on oil depots in the area.
The region is critical for Russia's fuel supplies, supporting its military operations in Ukraine.
Golubev, who has led Rostov since 2010 and was among Russia’s longest-serving governors, announced his resignation on Telegram, citing a transfer to a new role without providing further details.
Denies Security Search
Russian state news agency TASS reported that Golubev’s office denied rumors of a security search following his departure.
Following Golubev’s exit, Putin appointed Yuri Slyusar, 50, as interim governor. Originally from Rostov, Slyusar previously served as CEO of United Aircraft Corporation, a state aerospace and defense company. In his new role, Putin urged Slyusar to prioritize the region’s pressing issues.
With a population of over 4.2 million, Rostov is also a major agricultural hub, producing around 10% of Russia's total grain crop last year.
In August, a Ukrainian drone strike ignited a fire at an oil depot in the Kamensky district, which took weeks to extinguish.
The region also witnessed a brief but intense upheaval in June 2023, when Yevgeny Prigozhin, leader of the Wagner Group, seized control of Rostov-on-Don, the regional capital, and launched a march toward Moscow before abruptly standing down.
