Roman Starovoit, former governor of Kursk and recently dismissed Russian Transport Minister, was under investigation for involvement in a case of embezzlement of state funds intended for strengthening the border with Ukraine , according to two Reuters sources.

Starovoit was found dead with a gunshot wound in a park near Moscow, a few hours after he was fired by President Vladimir Putin .

His resignation, which according to sources was planned in advance, is related to allegations of mismanagement of border reinforcement projects in the Kursk region.

The state prosecutor's office had already identified irregularities amounting to at least 3.2 billion rubles (about $41 million) in December, mainly due to overpriced construction and projects that were not completed on time.

The case concerns border zone fortification projects following the major invasion of Ukrainian soldiers in the Kursk region in August 2024, the largest incursion into Russian territory since World War II.

Russian authorities have described the incident as embarrassing for the military, while the ensuing fighting caused widespread destruction in the region. Ukraine claims Russian casualties were heavy, although Moscow has not given an official account.

According to Russian media outlets RBC and Kommersant, individuals accused in the embezzlement case have reportedly given statements against Starovoit. His family has not commented publicly.

The Investigative Committee of Russia announced that it is considering suicide as the main possibility, as a gun was found next to the body. It did not provide further information on the time of death.

The Kremlin expressed shock at the death , but did not comment on the reasons for his dismissal.

Reuters