Who Is Sergei Shoigu? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Born on May 21, 1955, Sergei Shoigu is a prominent Russian politician who has served in various significant roles within the Russian government. As of 2025, Shoigu is 69 years old and continues to be a key figure in Russian politics, currently holding the position of Minister of Defense. His career spans decades, encompassing various governmental and political roles, demonstrating his influence and commitment to national affairs.
Occupation | Politician |
---|---|
Date of Birth | May 21, 1955 |
Age | 70 Years |
Birth Place | Chadan, Soviet Union |
Horoscope | Taurus |
Country | Chad |
Popularity
Sergei Shoigu's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While exact measurements can vary, Sergei Shoigu stands approximately 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) tall. His weight is reported around 165 pounds (75 kg). Known for his robust physique, Shoigu's presence often conveys strength and authority, reflecting his military background and leadership roles within the government.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As a private individual, Sergei Shoigu has largely kept his personal life away from the public eye. He is married and has two daughters. His wife, Irina Shoigu, has supported his political career, although there isn't much publicly available information about their relationship. As of 2025, there are no reports of any extramarital affairs or significant romantic relationships outside of his marriage.
Shoigu worked in construction projects nationwide for the next decade, advancing from low levels to become an executive. In 1988, Shoigu became a minor functionary in the Abakan branch of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, and then in the Komsomol for a few years.
In 1990, Shoigu moved to Moscow from Siberia, and was appointed deputy chairman of the State Architecture and Construction Committee of the Russian Federation, assisted by his father's connections.
Future president Boris Yeltsin had held a similar position in the Construction Committee, and had also come from a civil engineering and party background, so Shoigu gained Yeltsin's trust.
Net Worth and Salary
Sergei Shoigu's net worth is estimated to be around $10 million as of 2025. His long-standing career in politics, combined with various government salaries and potential investments, contributes to this wealth. Reports indicate that his annual salary as Minister of Defense is significant, reflecting his high-ranking position in the government.
Career, Business and Investments
Shoigu's career is notable for his extensive service in various political capacities since the early 1990s. He has held several important roles, including Minister of Civil Defense, Emergencies, and Disaster Relief before becoming the Minister of Defense in 2012. His military and leadership experience has played a crucial role in shaping Russia's defense policy and responding to national emergencies.
In addition to his political endeavors, Shoigu has shown interest in various business ventures and investments, particularly in sectors related to defense and infrastructure, further solidifying his status as a prominent figure in Russian industry and politics.
Alexandra Shoigu grew up in the Donbas town of Kadiivka and had traumatizing experiences while under detention of the German occupation forces during World War II. Later in her career she became a member of the Tuva Regional Council of People's Deputies.
Kuzhuget Shoigu rose to secretary of the Tuvan Regional Committee of the Communist Party, becoming a major figure in the Communist power structure of the republic.
Social Network
Sergei Shoigu maintains a relatively low profile on social media, reflecting his preference for privacy. However, he does have an official presence on platforms like Instagram and Twitter where he shares updates about his professional activities and key governmental initiatives. His social network presence is primarily utilized for official communication and engagement with the public.
As defence minister, Shoigu continued aspects of Serdyukov's attempts at modernizing the Russian Armed Forces through reform. This included the creation of the Special Operations Forces Command to facilitate rapid intervention in conflicts within the perceived Russian sphere of influence and counterterrorism efforts.
Serdyukov's goals of increasing the share of the Russian Armed Forces made up of professional contract servicemen rather than conscripts continued under Shoigu.
However, the demographic challenge of a decreasing pool of military-aged and -eligible males forced him to increase national conscription quotas in early 2013, including even North Caucasians perceived as a security risk by authorities such as Chechens. This followed on from Serdyukov's initiatives of reducing available draft exemptions.
Education
Shoigu's educational background includes a degree in civil engineering, which he obtained from the Krasnoyarsk Polytechnic Institute in 1977. His technical education has greatly influenced his approach to governance, particularly in disaster management and infrastructure development. In addition to his formal education, Shoigu has participated in numerous training programs and seminars throughout his career, enhancing his skills as a leader.
After graduating from Kyzyl Number 1 School in the Tuvan ASSR, Shoigu studied at the Krasnoyarsk Polytechnic Institute. Shoigu graduated in 1977 with a degree in civil engineering.