These images show Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu (currently head of the Russian Security Council) being presented with the Order "For Merit in Ensuring National Security of Venezuela" after an official meeting with Nicolás Maduro.
This evening, Maduro arrived in the United States on an unofficial visit, albeit with a bag over his head.
Shoigu, of course, isn't in dire straits. But sources at the VChK-OGPU and Rucriminal.info say he could also lose his position as head of the Security Council. This would happen if FSB Director Alexander Bortnikov resigns. Bortnikov has been on sick leave since May 2025, appearing only for high-profile events (such as Security Council meetings), and the FSB is currently under the effective leadership of his first deputy, Sergei Korolev. If Bortnikov resigns in 2026, he will undoubtedly take over as head of the Security Council. Moreover, according to sources, under Bortnikov, the Security Council may also be empowered to oversee all of Russia's security agencies. Where Shoigu will be exiled, however, remains a big question.
