The inner sanctum of Russian President Vladimir Putin is an exclusive domain, primarily occupied by a select group of men known as the “Siloviki.” These “men of force” or “security men,” with extensive backgrounds in intelligence agencies like the KGB, are deemed the only individuals Putin truly trusts to be by his side and to steer major policy directions. Their influence permeates national security, defense, and the broader Kremlin agenda.
This elite cadre operates distinct from technocrats, who typically hold government positions but lack sway over security matters. The Siloviki, conversely, dominate these critical areas, extending their reach to Putin’s personal security and the nation’s defense posture. International observers often point to the Siloviki as the driving force behind Russia’s robust stance on Ukraine and its relations with European nations, asserting that their worldview significantly shapes major Kremlin decisions.
Among the most influential Siloviki is Nikolai Patrushev, head of the Security Council, a KGB veteran and Putin confidante known for his staunchly anti-Western rhetoric and conspiracy theories. Sergei Naryshkin, leading Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service, also shares a long history with Putin and is recognized for his administrative skills and promotion of a nationalistic historical narrative. Alexander Bortnikov, director of the FSB, commands an extensive internal security network and has deep roots in the KGB alongside Putin. Sergey Shoigu, the Defense Minister, while an outlier due to his non-KGB background, holds significant sway and enjoys a personal relationship with Putin, advocating for national interests with less anti-Western fervor than some peers.
Furthermore, General Valery Gerasimov, Chief of the General Staff, is credited as the mastermind behind the Ukrainian invasion, highlighting Putin’s tendency to value seasoned loyalty. Beyond this core group, Yury Kovalchuk, a close informal advisor with deep personal and family connections, and Anton Vaino, the highly efficient Chief of Staff for the Presidential Executive Office, also play crucial roles in Putin’s inner circle, managing key aspects of his administration and strategic direction.