Putin purges Kremlin after failed coup.

Russian president Vladimir Putin has taken decisive action following the mutiny by the Wagner Group last week, putin-launches-kremlin-purge-after-coup-attempt/” title=”Putin purges Kremlin after failed coup.”>making significant personnel changes within the highest ranks of the Russian military.

Sergei Surovikin, a senior general who had previously supported Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, has mysteriously disappeared since the rebellion began on Saturday morning.

The New York Times, citing U.S. officials, reported that Surovikin had prior knowledge of the mutiny, leading to suspicions that he is currently being interrogated about his involvement in planning the rebellion. Surovikin, who previously led Russia’s invasion of Ukraine before being demoted in January, served as the main point of contact between Wagner and the Kremlin.

In a video message, Surovikin was last seen ordering Wagner fighters to stand down. However, his demeanor appeared strained, leading officials to compare it to a “hostage video,” according to the Times.

Russian security forces have also begun cracking down on sympathizers and those who violated their oath, according to a source close to Prigozhin cited by the Financial Times.

However, amidst the aftermath of the insurrection, Putin is also rewarding his loyal allies. Viktor Zolotov’s National Guard has received heavy artillery and tanks, indicating an increased role in future operations.

Furthermore, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and General Valery Gerasimov, who replaced Surovikin as the top commander in January, have reportedly seen their influence grow in recent days.