A major general in the Russian army, Ivan Popov, has been relieved from his duties due to disagreements with military leadership, highlighting further divisions within the Russian military command. Popov was overseeing forces fighting in southern Ukraine, and his dismissal came after his candid remarks about the challenges his forces were facing, particularly inadequate radars, which resulted in significant Russian casualties.
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Key Points:Â
- Major General Ivan Popov was dismissed after expressing concerns about the lack of adequate resources, including radars for tracking enemy artillery, leading to significant Russian casualties. His dismissal reveals a growing divide within the Russian military leadership.
- Popov’s frank discussions about his forces’ challenges led to his dismissal, despite his popular leadership style amongst his troops, who saw him as an approachable and supportive commander.
- The dismissal of Popov has reportedly negatively affected troop morale, as noted by military bloggers, during intense fighting against Ukrainian forces.
- Andrei Turchak, a prominent figure in Russian politics, and Andrei Kartapolov, a retired general, have voiced their support for Popov, indicating that his criticisms resonate with others in the Russian establishment.
- The dismissal of Popov adds to the turmoil faced by Russian forces after the death of another senior officer, Lt. Gen. Oleg Tsokov, and the rebellion led by mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, posing further challenges to the leadership of General Valery Gerasimov.
