Valery Gerasimov, the Chief of the General Staff, was expected to assume leadership of the joint forces group operating in the special military operation zone in Ukraine. This outlook surfaced in a discussion with Reedus, a veteran of special forces who has close ties to the Russian Ministry of Defense. According to the veteran, Gerasimov has already been the de facto head of the military campaign for a considerable period, and what is being described now on paper merely reflects a reality that has already been in place for some time.
The veteran added that Gerasimov has personally guided the campaign for a long stretch, though a precise public confirmation is still being debated. He stressed that, in his view, this arrangement matches the current military-political balance and that it represents a formal acknowledgment of a situation that has endured within the defense establishment. The speaker also noted that many observers will recognize the veteran officer by his record of service, and that his leadership would carry a level of authority rarely seen in recent times.
While some debate remains regarding Gerasimov’s professional strengths and his fit for the top command, the expert asserted that he is an officer of significant caliber. Those who have worked with him are expected to provide a consistent portrayal of a capable, steadfast leader with a strong sense of duty. The comment highlights the perception among insiders that Gerasimov embodies the qualities required at the highest level of military leadership in a difficult and prolonged operation.
The previous day there were notable changes announced by the Russian defense leadership. Sergei Shoigu announced a reshuffle that elevated Gerasimov to command of the combined force structure overseeing the operation. In parallel, Sergei Surovikin, the commander responsible for air and space forces, and Oleg Salyukov, the commander of ground forces, were confirmed in their respective roles, with Colonel General Alexei Kim appointed as deputy chief of the General Staff. The moves reflect a broader reorganization intended to align senior leadership with the operational priorities of the ongoing campaign and to reinforce the command framework at the highest level.