On March 26, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin made significant political changes in the Sverdlovsk and Orenburg regions by appointing Denis Pasler as the acting governor of the Sverdlovsk region and Evgeny Solntsev as the acting governor of the Orenburg region. This announcement came through the Kremlin's press service, marking a notable shift in the regional leadership.
Pasler, who has been serving as the governor of the Orenburg region since 2019, accepted Putin's offer to return to the Sverdlovsk region, where he previously held the position of chairman of the regional government from 2012 to 2016. During their meeting, Putin emphasized Pasler's familiarity with the Sverdlovsk region, stating, "I want to offer you and ask you to return to your native places for you, where you have already worked, moreover, in a high position. You know this region very well, one of the key ones for us, industrially developed region." Pasler expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and assured the president of his commitment to tackle the challenges ahead.
Evgeny Kuivashev, who has been at the helm of the Sverdlovsk region since 2012, resigned from his post, a decision that had been anticipated for some time. Reports suggest that discussions regarding Kuivashev's potential resignation began as early as February 17, 2025. Sources close to the presidential administration indicated that the governor’s departure had been under consideration, but the timing hinged on finding and approving a suitable successor.
Kuivashev's political journey has been extensive. Starting as the head of the administration in Tobolsk in 2005, he later served as the mayor of Tyumen and held various significant positions, including Deputy Presidential Plenipotentiary in the Urals Federal District. His leadership in the Sverdlovsk region was marked by two successful election campaigns, where he secured over 62% of the votes in 2017 and 65% in 2022. His tenure, however, was not without criticism, particularly regarding environmental policies and transparency in governance.
Denis Pasler, born on October 29, 1978, in Severouralsk, has a rich background in both regional governance and the energy sector. After starting his career at the Severouralsk bauxite mine, he graduated from the Ural State Mining and Geological Academy and climbed the ranks in various companies, eventually leading the T-Plus holding, which oversaw the construction of major solar power plants in the Orenburg region. His experience and previous leadership roles position him well for the challenges that lie ahead in Sverdlovsk.
Meanwhile, Evgeny Solntsev, who has been the chairman of the government of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) since March 2023, was appointed to replace Pasler in Orenburg. Solntsev's background includes significant roles in the Russian government, where he has gained experience in construction and infrastructure projects. His acceptance of the position reflects confidence in his ability to manage the Orenburg region effectively.
Both Pasler and Solntsev's appointments are part of a broader strategy by Putin to ensure that experienced leaders are at the forefront of regional governance. The Kremlin's press service confirmed that both officials accepted their new roles during their meeting with the president, a move that has been met with attention in political circles.
The upcoming elections for the governor of the Orenburg region, scheduled for September, will be critical for both the new acting governor and the region's future. Ella Pamfilova, head of the Central Election Commission of the Russian Federation, announced that these elections will be early, following Pasler's resignation, which was officially recorded as being "at his own request."
Pasler's success in Sverdlovsk will depend on his ability to navigate the complex political landscape, balancing various interests and ensuring effective governance. Political analysts note that his prior experience in the region may provide him with an advantage in addressing the challenges he will face.
As for Solntsev, his leadership in the Orenburg region will be closely watched, particularly given his background in the DPR government and his recent ascent in regional politics. His experience in managing governmental functions in a challenging environment may serve him well as he transitions to this new role.
In summary, the recent political reshuffling by President Putin reflects a strategic approach to governance in key regions of Russia. With both Pasler and Solntsev stepping into their new roles, the focus will be on how they implement policies and address the needs of their respective regions amidst the ongoing political dynamics in the country.
