The ongoing political crisis and recent personnel changes in the Russian-occupied Tskhinvali region are the result of overt pressure exerted by the Kremlin. Following direct pressure from the Kremlin on the de facto President, Alan Gagloev, the so-called parliament approved Marat Kambolov as the Prime Minister of South Ossetia - a trusted associate of Vladimir Putin and a member of his inner circle.

This personnel appointment constitutes an unprecedented example of Kremlin interference. According to insider reports, Moscow had categorically demanded that Gagloev dismiss the government. Although influential local figures urged Gagloev to resist, the Kremlin ultimately imposed its will, as it has done on previous occasions. Kambolov's arrival in Tskhinvali and his unilateral occupation of the Speaker's chair in the so-called parliament triggered protests and a heated confrontation on the ground. Nevertheless, Moscow carried out its plan through to completion.

Marat Kambolov's appointment as Prime Minister directly confirms the policy of the de facto annexation of the occupied territory. Moscow no longer trusts the local corrupt clans and has transferred the reins of governance to one of its own trusted appointees. In his first address, the new so-called Prime Minister openly endorsed the Kremlin's military narrative, placing particular emphasis on the alliance with Russia, the so-called “special military operation” (SVO) in Ukraine, and the “improvement” of the functioning of the so-called Russia–South Ossetia border.

Less than a year remains before the expiry of Gagloev's term in office, yet the Kremlin has significantly accelerated developments. Information is already circulating widely within the security agencies regarding the possibility of early so-called presidential elections being held this autumn. The appointment of one of Putin's trusted associates as head of the government clearly demonstrates that the Tskhinvali region is now being governed openly and directly by the Kremlin, marking the most dangerous phase of the annexation process to date.