Artem Zhogu of “Sparta” Named Putin’s Representative in Ural Federal District

Artem Zhoga, the commander of the “Sparta” battalion, has been appointed by Vladimir Putin as his plenipotentiary representative in the ⁢Urals⁣ Federal District, as announced on the Kremlin’s official website.

Zhoga took over leadership of the “Sparta” battalion in 2022 after his son Vladimir Zhoga passed away earlier that⁢ year. The ‌battalion played a role in Russia’s actions in Ukraine.⁣ Prior to Artem ‍Zhoga, Vladimir Zhoga ⁤had led⁣ the battalion since 2016 following the assassination of Arsen Pavlov, also known as “Motorola.” The ‌formation of “Sparta” dates back to 2014 during the conflict in Donbass.

In a shift towards politics, Zhoga joined the ranks of “United‍ Russia” party⁤ in 2023. He successfully ran⁤ for a seat in Donetsk Oblast’s occupied territories and became a deputy in DPR I convocation’s People’s Council representing “United Russia.” Subsequently elected as chairman of Donetsk People’s Republic’s People’s Council on September 20th. Additionally, he served as co-chair for Putin’s election campaign headquarters during March 2024 elections.

Prior‍ to this appointment, Vladimir Yakushev held this position ⁤within Urals Federal District. In September, Yakushev transitioned ⁣to become Valentina Matviyenko’s first deputy chairman at Federation Council.

Article from theins.ru