A Russian general, Major General Ivan Popov, who previously criticized the nation's Ministry of Defense, may be returning to the front lines in Ukraine this week. Popov once commanded Russia's 58th Army before being removed from his position. He was subsequently accused of fraud and detained after publicly criticizing Russian military leadership in 2023.
His lawyer and the Ministry of Defense have proposed that Popov be placed in command of a detachment composed of former convicts. These units have suffered significant casualties during the war in Ukraine. According to Russian media, Popov's lawyer stated that a motion has been filed to suspend the case against him, with the intention of sending him to Ukraine.
In March, Popov sent an open letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, requesting reinstatement to military service to potentially halt his criminal trial.
Rebekah Koffler, a former defense intelligence officer, suggests that Putin might intervene in the case to ensure Popov's deployment to Ukraine. She noted that Putin often involves himself in high-profile cases, particularly when Western media is involved. Koffler speculated that Putin might allow the legal process to continue, or he might send Popov to fight in Ukraine, potentially using the situation for propaganda purposes.
The assignment to a penal detachment is considered dangerous, as these units are often used for high-risk missions, resulting in high casualty rates. In his letter to Putin, Popov stated his desire to continue fighting and fulfill his oath. His lawyer mentioned Popov's gratitude for the trust placed in him by the president.
As commander of the 58th Army, Popov oversaw a force of approximately 50,000 troops. The detachment he may soon lead is likely much smaller, numbering in the hundreds. During his time leading the 58th Army, Popov gained favor with troops by successfully defending against a Ukrainian counter-attack. He later criticized Russia's top commanders for allowing an initial breakthrough by Ukrainian forces.
Following his criticism, Popov was reassigned to Syria before facing fraud charges. He denied any wrongdoing and maintained support from individuals in Moscow who shared his criticisms of the Russian military leadership.
15 Comments
Loubianka
Using former convicts in combat is not just reckless; it’s a recipe for disaster. How can they expect to win with such tactics?
Eugene Alta
The Ministry of Defense needs a complete overhaul. This is not how you maintain the trust of your soldiers or the public.
Loubianka
Trials and tribulations can lead to growth. Perhaps Popov’s experience will help in overcoming the challenges faced.
BuggaBoom
Open letters like his show a desire for accountability. Let's see if he can spark some change from within.
Katchuka
This is bound to backfire. You can't build a successful military on fraud and desperation.
Coccinella
This is all just a PR stunt to distract from the failures on the front line. Putin needs to focus on real solutions.
Muchacha
I like the idea of putting someone with experience in high-risk units. It might just turn things around.
Mariposa
Reinstating someone who has critiqued the leadership could actually help improve conditions in the military.
Habibi
Why on earth would they trust someone who publicly criticized military leadership? This is just inviting chaos.
ZmeeLove
It's appalling that a general accused of fraud is being considered for deployment again! This sends such a wrong message.
Bermudez
A move like this could serve as motivation for others in the ranks to speak out against poor leadership.
Africa
Promoting someone like Popov back into a leadership role shows just how desperate the Russian military has become.
Bermudez
The military needs dynamic leaders, and Popov has proven himself in the past. He deserves this chance.
moshiurroney
Sending potentially unstable troops into battle only endangers more lives. This isn't strategic, it's madness.
Comandante
Instead of addressing the real issues, they are risking lives with such reckless decisions. This needs to stop.