Rustam Lapin will become the deputy prime minister of Tatarstan

The head of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov, said that Colonel General Rustam Lapin will become the republic’s deputy prime minister and will head a new government unit on support for participants in the “SVO”.

After leaving military service, Lapin had already worked as Minnikhanov’s assistant on “SVO” issues, defense, and work with veterans.

According to “Business Online”, Lapin tried to become a State Duma deputy and hoped to head the parliamentary defense committee, but his candidacy was not approved in Moscow.

Since 2022, Lapin had led the “Center” troop grouping, but was removed from the post after the surrender of Lyman.

In May 2024, he was appointed commander of the troops of the Leningrad Military District, on the basis of which the “North” troop grouping was formed.

The fighters of this grouping were supposed to guard the border with Ukraine, and in August 2025 Lapin was dismissed and in September removed from military service.

Sources

• Important Stories