“`html
Vladimir Putin’s ex-classmate has been named as the new chair of Russia’s Supreme Court.
Quick Facts
- Irina Podnosova, a university classmate of Vladimir Putin, has been confirmed as the new chair of Russia’s Supreme Court.
- Podnosova was nominated as the sole candidate for the position following the death of the previous chairman, Vyacheslav Lebedev.
- Podnosova’s nomination was quickly approved by the Federation Council with 167 senators backing her appointment.
Irina Podnosova, a former university classmate of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has been appointed as the new chair of Russia’s Supreme Court. According to a statement from the Upper House of the Russian Parliament, Podnosova, who has 34 years of experience as a judge and the highest qualification class of a judge, was nominated as the sole candidate for the position after the death of Vyacheslav Lebedev, the former chairman of the Supreme Court. She was quickly approved by the Federation Council with 167 senators backing her appointment, indicating widespread support for her new role.
Podnosova’s nomination comes after only 10 minutes of deliberation by a collegium of judges, showcasing the rapid decision-making process. Notably, both Podnosova and Putin studied law at Leningrad State University and graduated in 1975, highlighting their longstanding connection. This appointment has drawn attention, especially in light of the recent sanctions imposed on Podnosova by Ukraine for her alleged support of the invasion of Ukraine as a member of the Supreme Court.
Her swift approval and the recognition of her qualifications by the Federation Council have underscored the Kremlin’s stance on gender equality in Russia. Putin’s spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized that her unanimous backing demonstrates the absence of gender inequality in the country. This appointment is significant, given Podnosova’s background and the context of her nomination, reflecting the evolving dynamics within Russia’s highest judicial system.
“`
