Putin Replaces Top Military Commander Following Incursions into Kursk Region
Moscow, September 22, 2025 – Russian President Vladimir putin has relieved Lieutenant General Andrey Sycheyev of his command of the Russian Western Military District, responsible for border security in the Kursk region, following recent cross-border raids attributed to Ukrainian forces. The dismissal,announced by the Ministry of Defence earlier today,marks a significant personnel shift amid heightened scrutiny of Russia’s defensive capabilities.
The removal of Sycheyev underscores the Kremlin’s sensitivity to perceived security failures, notably after Ukrainian incursions into the Kursk region on September 19th and 20th. These events demonstrated vulnerabilities in Russia’s border defenses and fueled domestic criticism, raising questions about the effectiveness of military leadership in the face of ongoing conflict. The appointment of Lieutenant General Vladimir Seliverstov as the new commander is intended to restore confidence and bolster security measures along the ukrainian border.
Sycheyev had commanded the Western Military District since January 2023, overseeing a vast area encompassing regions bordering Ukraine, Belarus, and the Baltic states. The incursions involved clashes between Ukrainian saboteurs and Russian border guards, as well as attacks on civilian infrastructure. While Russian officials downplayed the scale of the incidents, independent sources reported significant fighting and casualties.
The Ministry of defence cited “the need for a change in leadership to improve the effectiveness of defence measures” as the reason for Sycheyev’s dismissal. No specific details regarding the circumstances of his removal were provided. This personnel change occurs as Russia continues its military campaign in Ukraine, facing increasing challenges on the battlefield and growing pressure from international sanctions. The incident in Kursk highlights the ongoing risks to Russia’s internal security and the potential for escalation in the conflict.
