Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered the reinstallation of a statue of Felix Dzerzhinsky at Russia's premier intelligence academy, marking the return of a controversial Soviet-era figure to prominence.

Dzerzhinsky, known as 'Iron Felix,' founded the Cheka, the precursor to the KGB and modern FSB intelligence services. The statue had previously been removed from the academy as part of post-Soviet de-Stalinization efforts.

The decision comes as Putin continues to rehabilitate certain Soviet symbols and figures, particularly those connected to state security and intelligence operations. Dzerzhinsky is viewed by supporters as a dedicated revolutionary who helped establish Soviet power, while critics see him as an architect of political repression.

The timing of the statue's return coincides with Russia's ongoing military campaign in Ukraine and Putin's emphasis on strengthening state security institutions. The intelligence academy trains officers for Russia's various security and intelligence agencies.

Putin, himself a former KGB officer, has previously expressed admiration for certain aspects of the Soviet security apparatus while condemning other elements of the Stalin era. The restoration of Dzerzhinsky's statue represents another step in Russia's complex relationship with its Soviet past.