Russian Security Shake-Up: Surovikin and Shoigu Dismissed, Mobilization Announced

Russian General Sergei Surovikin has been officially relieved of duty as the commander of the Aerospace Forces following his suspected involvement in the deadly military coup in June. Surovikin, who had close ties with Wagner Group boss Yevgeny Prigozhin, had not been seen in public since June 24 when he pleaded with the Wagner mercenaries to end their violent uprising. Speculation about his whereabouts and fate had been circulating for months, with reports suggesting he had been detained and interrogated. The news of his dismissal was announced by journalist Alexei Venediktov, and several pro-Kremlin Telegram channels confirmed the firing, stating that President Vladimir Putin's decree was signed last week but kept secret.