Vladimir Putin's surprise choice of new defence minister Andrei Belousov has been speaking to a parliamentary committee as part of his confirmation process.
In his first comments since being named for the post, he called for greater care for soldiers, including better access to housing, hospitals and welfare benefits.
State media quoted him as saying there was too much bureaucracy surrounding the payment of benefits to military personnel.
"I think it's a mess when participants in the special military operation who come back on vacation are driven from civilian medical institutions to hospitals which are often simply overcrowded. This issue needs to be resolved," Mr Belousov said.
The comments appeared to be aimed at demonstrating to members of the armed forces that he understands their concerns and will work to improve their conditions.
