SVO participant Alexander Popenko has become the new advisor to the mayor of Nizhny Novgorod.

      On June 15, 2026, at 15:02, Politics Participant of the Special Military Operation Alexander Popenko became the new advisor to the mayor of Nizhny Novgorod, Yuri Shalabaev, on a voluntary basis. The head of the city announced this on his social media. According to the mayor, he met Popenko during his participation in the "Time of Heroes" program, initiated by the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin. As part of the program, he interned at the city administration, and his mentor was Shalabaev. The mayor noted that he immediately saw in Popenko a person with strong values, patriotic views, and a desire to be of service. During the internship, the program participant paid special attention to topics he considers most important. One of his key areas became the issue of patriotic education for youth. As the mayor explained, Alexander Popenko proposed to expand the work of the Center for Military-Patriotic Education, including more actively involving city schools in this activity. "I have confidence in Alexander. Wishing us good cooperation for the benefit of the city and its residents!" concluded the mayor. Let us remind you that in August 2024, the mayor's advisor became the veteran of the Special Military Operation, Vladimir Anisimov. In May 2025, he was appointed deputy mayor. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has channels on Telegram and MAX. Subscribe to stay updated on the main events, exclusive materials, and operational information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". When republishing, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is mandatory. This resource may contain materials 18+.