Sergei Ivanov, Russia’s former defense minister, has died at the age of 73. His death was announced by the basketball VTB United League, of which he was the honorary president.
The cause of death has not been disclosed.
“For the VTB United League, Sergei Borisovich will forever remain a man whose name is inseparably linked with the tournament’s history, its values, and its achievements. Blessed memory,” the league said in its statement.
Career in the Russian government
Sergei Ivanov headed the Russian Defense Ministry from 2001 to 2007. After leaving that post, he was appointed deputy prime minister of Russia.
In 2011, Ivanov became chief of the Russian presidential administration. Later, in 2016, he was appointed Vladimir Putin’s special representative for environmental protection, ecology, and transport.
In February 2026, Ivanov was relieved of that position at his own request. At the same time, he also lost his status as a permanent member of the Russian Security Council.