Kremlin dodges questions over 'missing' General Sergei Surovikin

Synopsis

General Sergey Surovikin's current status raises questions as speculation grows about his ties to Evgeni Prigozhin and Wagner. His daughter claims he has not been detained, but his close relationship with Prigozhin, who once praised him as a potential chief of the general staff, fuels concerns. Mikhail Miss, a former deputy defense minister, was dismissed in April and subsequently joined Wagner, further complicating the narrative. Surovikin previously led operations in Ukraine, facing scrutiny after Russia's withdrawal from Kherson in November. His demotion earlier this year, with Valery Gerasimov resuming command, suggests a shift in the Kremlin's strategy to rein in Wagner's influence. The recent video of Surovikin urging Prigozhin to avoid a mutiny raises doubts about his autonomy, as he is not a prominent public figure and appears uncomfortable in the spotlight.