Media: Russia will replace top military commander in Syria
The Russian forces in Syria will be commanded by 51-year-old General-Colonel Alexander Zhuravlev, reported news agency RBC, citing one of its sources.
According to the report, Zhuravlev’s task will be to prepare for the completion of the military operation. A source close to the Russian Ministry of Defense told RBC that the relevant documents have already been prepared and await signing. Another of RBC’s sources stated that the decision to appoint Zhuravlev to the post of commander of the Russian forces in Syria was made just a day or two ago.
RBC reports that Zhuravlev commanded the Russian forces in Syria from July to December 2016. Prior to his Syrian post, he served as Chief of Staff of the Southern Military District and on his return was appointed Deputy Chief of the General Staff. The 51-year-old Alexander Zhuravlev was appointed as General-Colonel in February 2017.