Russian Military in Turmoil: Understanding the Implications

Major General Ivan Popov, a top Russian army official, claims he was fired for his honesty about the mismanagement of the war in Ukraine and accused the defense ministry of betraying troops. Popov's allegations highlight the widespread discontent within the Russian military, which has recently seen several incidents, including the killing of a commander in an airstrike, the disappearance of another following a mutiny, and the accusation of treason against top brass. Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly offered Wagner soldiers the opportunity to join the Russian military, but some commanders refused. The whereabouts of General Sergei Surovikin, who allegedly had prior knowledge of the mutiny, remain unknown.