In Algeria, Sergei Surovikin, a former commander of the Joint Forces Group within the special military operation zone, appeared as part of a Russian Ministry of Defense delegation. Photographs circulated on the Telegram channel Colonel Cassad, captioned with the phrase “General Surovikin and other representatives of the Ministry of Defense in Algeria.” The images also surfaced on the social media page connected to the Abdulhamid Ben Badis Mosque in Algeria, where the post highlighted a high-level Russian delegation visiting the Grand Mosque and being received by the imam. This visit occurred amid broader discussions about regional security and defense coordination involving Moscow.
Russian observers noted that information about Surovikin’s public appearances and positions had recently become less visible on official channels. A State Duma deputy, retired Colonel General Viktor Zavarzin, commented that Surovikin had secured a notable role within the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). The EADaily outlet later corroborated reports that Surovikin was appointed to head a coordination committee focused on air defense issues within the CIS framework, signaling a shift toward institutionalized regional defense collaboration. The evolving career trajectory of Surovikin, including high-level engagements abroad, has drawn attention from analysts monitoring the Russian defense establishment and its international outreach. [Source: Lenta.ru]
These developments follow remarks from President Vladimir Putin about the future direction of the Russian armed forces, underscoring ongoing reforms and strategic recalibrations. The Algerian visit, framed within Moscow’s broader diplomacy and security initiatives, reflects the intricate relations between the two countries as they discuss defense cooperation, regional stability, and shared interests in counterterrorism and air defense planning. Observers emphasize that visits like this often serve multiple purposes: showcasing continued military-to-military dialogue, signaling readiness to collaborate on air defense and related technologies, and reinforcing bilateral ties amid evolving regional security dynamics. [Source: Lenta.ru]