Putin Restructures Russian Security Forces, Placing Rosgvardia Under Military Command

Overhaul of Russian Security Command

According to ХВИЛЯ: In a significant restructuring of Russia's security apparatus, President Vladimir Putin has issued a decree placing the National Guard, known as Rosgvardia, under the direct command of the Russian General Staff. This move, dated February 11, 2026, was highlighted in a report by analysts at the U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW). Rosgvardia is a powerful internal security force originally created to answer directly to the president.

Analysts identify Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov as the primary beneficiary of this shift. The ISW assessment suggests that bringing Rosgvardia and elements of the main defense command under the General Staff's authority will substantially consolidate Gerasimov's control over Russia's security forces. Furthermore, Russia's Security Council is reportedly considering the complete dissolution of the Ministry of Emergency Situations (MChS), with plans to integrate some of its personnel into Rosgvardia's structure.

Domestic Political Implications of the Reforms

Opposition politician Ilya Ponomarev has commented on these personnel changes within Russia's military bloc, emphasizing their importance for the country's internal political landscape. The security command reform is certain to have major consequences for Russia's security system and could influence the future trajectory of regional dynamics.

This alteration to the command structure of Russia's security agencies indicates the Kremlin's desire to tighten control over its security forces amid escalating international tensions. - Ilya Ponomarev

The subordination of Rosgvardia to the General Staff suggests a concentration of power within the military high command, which may affect the implementation of the country's military strategies. This reform could also be a response to internal challenges and political instability stemming from a combination of external and domestic pressures.