Russian Colonel-General Viktor Afzalov has been appointed commander of the Russian Air Force, TASS and RIA Novosti reported on October 20, citing sources. Afzalov was promoted from his position of acting air force chief, a role he assumed after General Sergei Surovikin was removed from the post in August. Afzalov previously commanded the Air Force and Air Defense Army of the Eastern Military District. Surovikin commanded Russian troops in Ukraine from October 2022 until he was demoted to the position of deputy commander in January. To read the original story on RFE/RL’s Russian Service, click here.
Afzalov Appointed Commander Of Russian Air Force, According To Russian State Media
Viktor Afzalov replaces Sergei Surovikin (pictured), who was removed from the post of commander of the Russian Air Force in August.