Russian Military Command Faces Potential Overhaul Amidst Reports of Disarray
Reports suggest significant upheaval within the Russian military leadership, fueled by the army’s struggles in Ukraine and allegations of a severe response from the Kremlin. Valery Gerasimov, Chief of Russia’s General Staff and commander of forces in Ukraine, is reportedly facing potential dismissal as president Putin considers a major reshuffle of senior officers.
the move comes after Gerasimov publicly touted successes from the summer offensive in late August, claiming the army had captured thousands of square kilometers of territory, seized nearly 150 settlements, and nearly encircled kupiansk in the Kharkiv region. Though, these claims have been widely disputed by Western analysts, Ukrainian officials, and even pro-Russian military bloggers, who point to limited gains achieved at a significant cost in lives and equipment.
The Telegram channel General SVR, which claims to be run by current and former members of Russian intelligence services, reports that Putin is preparing a large-scale “purge” of the General Staff, potentially replacing up to 80% of its personnel. “There will soon be a change in the leadership of the military bloc,” the channel stated, adding that Gerasimov has been warned his position is untenable.
According to General SVR, Gerasimov has responded to the looming threat with a “severe drinking binge.” The channel also suggests the reshuffle within the Ministry of Defense will be less extensive than the changes expected at the General Staff, and the fate of the current Defence Minister remains uncertain.
General SVR, which emerged in 2020, maintains the confidentiality of its sources for security reasons but asserts “complete confidence” in its information, as stated to Business Insider. The channel previously reported an incident involving President Putin falling down stairs, a claim vehemently denied by the Kremlin.
