Russian Commander Dismissed for False Claims on Ukraine War Progress
Russia has dismissed Colonel General Gennady Anashkin from his command due to false claims about military progress in eastern Ukraine, particularly near Siversk. This action follows widespread criticism from military bloggers, highlighting misleading reports and significant losses. Ukrainian forces face intense offensives, while the Russian Ministry of Defense remains silent on Anashkin's removal.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
In a significant development, Russia has removed a senior commander from his post for making false claims about the progress of the war in parts of eastern Ukraine. According to military bloggers and Russian media, Colonel General Gennady Anashkin, the commander of the South Forces Group, was dismissed after providing misleading information about Russia's progress near the Siversk settlement in the eastern region of Donetsk.
A Pattern of Deception: False Reports and Heavy Losses
Anashkin's removal comes amid growing criticism of the Russian military's handling of the war in Ukraine. Military bloggers, who have become a key source of information since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, have accused several commanders of making false reports about the situation on the ground. These false claims have allegedly led to heavy losses among Russian units.
"Synonymous with Lies and Unjustified Losses"
Rybar, one of the most prominent Russian military blogs, described the situation in some regions as "synonymous with lies and unjustified losses." The blog claimed that it took the Russian military system about two months to respond properly to the problems in multiple settlements near the frontline that Anashkin allegedly lied about capturing.
Ukrainian Forces Face "One of the Most Powerful Russian Offensives"
Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces are facing "one of the most powerful Russian offensives" since the start of the war on the frontlines, according to Ukraine's army chief. However, progress has been slower in some regions, with many settlements becoming a focal point of controversy.
A List of Controversial Settlements
The following settlements have been at the center of controversy due to false reports and heavy losses:
- Siversk settlement
- Donetsk region
- Multiple settlements near the frontline
Russian Ministry of Defense Remains Silent
Despite the reports of Anashkin's removal, the Russian Ministry of Defense has not officially confirmed the news. CNN has contacted the Russian Ministry of Defense for comment, but no response has been received.
The Role of Military Bloggers in Exposing False Claims
Military bloggers have played a crucial role in exposing false claims and providing accurate information about the war in Ukraine. With deep sources within the Russian armed forces or among pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine, these bloggers have become a trusted source of information for many.
