Russian Deputy Defense Minister Timur Ivanov was detained on suspicion of taking a bribe. This was reported by the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation.

"Deputy Defense Minister Timur Vadimovich Ivanov has been detained on suspicion of committing a crime under Part 6 of Article 290 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (bribery). Necessary investigative actions are being carried out," the ministry said in a statement.

According to Russian media, security forces are conducting "special measures" at his dacha in Dagestan. According to preliminary information, Ivanov is charged with taking a bribe of at least 1 million rubles. He could face up to 15 years in prison.

Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Russian President Vladimir Putin had been informed of Ivanov's detention, and that Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu had also been informed.

Ivanov had served as Deputy Defense Minister since May 2016. Ivanov was in charge of construction and material support.

It is worth noting that Russian telegram channels write that Ivanov's detention is a blow to Shoigu, as the head of the Russian Defense Ministry is considered his main "patron." In this regard, there are speculations about Shoigu's resignation.