Shoigu makes exaggerated statements for sake of image amid criticism - British intelligence
The British Ministry of Defense reported this on Twitter, citing intelligence data, according to Ukrinform.
“During the last week, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu has maintained a high public profile, likely with the aim of presenting himself as in control of strategic issues while Ukraine accelerates offensive operations. Shoigu has provided at least two comments on Russia's defensive operations, including making almost certainly seriously exaggerated claims about Ukrainian losses. This contrasts with other key periods in the war when he had disappeared from public appearances,” the agency said.
The Ministry of Defense added that Shoigu has also urged Russia's defence industry to redouble its efforts, and castigated Western Military District officers for not dispatching reserve armoured vehicles to the front quickly enough.
“Shoigu is likely acutely aware of the need to maintain a positive image in the face of increasingly unmasked criticism from some fellow Russians,” the agency noted.
As reported, the illegitimate son of Russian Defense Minister Serhiy Shoigu, 22-year-old Danilo Shebunov, left Russia for Turkey a few days before the announcement of "partial mobilization" in Russia.
