According to a well-known Russian journalist, General Sergei Surovikin, who previously commanded Moscow’s war effort in Ukraine, has been removed as the head of Russia’s aerospace forces. Alexei Venediktov, the former head of Ekho Moskvy radio station, shared this information on his Telegram channel. Although there is no official confirmation, several Russian news outlets have cited this report on social media.
Venediktov did not offer any further details but stated that Surovikin’s dismissal had been done through an official decree. Since a brief mutiny led by the Wagner mercenary group and its leader Yevgeny Prigozhin against Russia’s defense establishment on June 24-24, the general has not made any public appearances. During the revolt, he appeared in a video without any insignia, urging Prigozhin to stand down. Reports suggest that Surovikin is under investigation for potential involvement in the mutiny.
Surovikin gained the moniker “General Armageddon” during Russia’s military intervention in the Syrian civil war. Last October, he assumed control of Russian military operations in Ukraine. However, in January, General Valery Gerasimov, the chief of the general staff, took over this role, and Surovikin became Gerasimov’s deputy.
This development indicates a significant change in the leadership of Russia’s aerospace forces, although it remains unconfirmed. With Surovikin’s dismissal, the country’s defense establishment undergoes further transformation and potential investigations regarding the mutiny. The reasons behind Surovikin’s removal are yet to be revealed.
Given the lack of official statements, it is unclear who will succeed Surovikin as the new head of Russia’s aerospace forces. Any changes in leadership within the military are closely watched, as they may influence Russia’s foreign and defense policies.
The dismissal of a high-ranking military officer like Surovikin highlights the ongoing power struggles within Russia’s defense establishment. It also exemplifies President Putin’s efforts to maintain control and discipline among military personnel as he confronts domestic and international challenges.
As more details emerge about Surovikin’s removal, it will become clearer whether the mutiny and its aftermath played a significant role in this decision. The investigation into his potential involvement suggests serious implications for the Russian military and its relationship with private military contractors like the Wagner group.
The media’s attention will now focus on potential successors for Surovikin’s position and the implications this change may have on Russia’s military strategy, particularly in Syria and Ukraine.
Mark Trevelyan reported this news article, and Gareth Jones provided the editing.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
