Russia's defence minister is continuing public duties despite rumours that Vladimir Putin is seeking to punish him for his lack of success in Ukraine.
Sergei Shoigu presented Gold Star medals to "servicemen who showed courage and heroism in carrying out the tasks of a special military operation",
"Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Tula oblast governor and known Wagner Group-affiliate Alexei Dyumin on 2 May, further indicating that Putin may be seeking to reduce Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu's power by balancing him with rivals," it said in a statement.
