Sergei Surovikin, who is largely responsible for Russia’s comprehensive defense system in Ukraine, known as the Surovikin Line, is no longer at the center of current events in Ukraine. Business Insider reports this, citing various sources and photos from social media platforms. Surovikin, who once served as Russia’s commander-in-chief in Ukraine, has stepped out of the spotlight following his arrest in connection with ties to the Wagner Group mercenary organization. Photos of him recently emerged in Algeria, a country that has close relations with Russia.

Russia’s change of strategy in Africa after Wagner drama

Experts, including those from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) and the RAND Corporation, suspected that Surovikin was in Algeria, possibly in a new role related to Russian activities in Africa. This should be seen against the background that Russia is trying to gain more control over the activities of mercenaries in Africa after the death of the leader of the Wagner Group, Yevgeny Prigozhin. According to ISW, Surovikin may be involved in Russia’s efforts to take over the Wagner Group’s operations. However, Business Insider emphasizes that the exact nature of Surovikin’s role and his responsibilities in Africa remain unclear.

Kiev’s push against the “Surovikin Line”

Meanwhile in Ukraine: Kiev’s troops continue to try to break through the impressive Russian defenses. These installations, often referred to as the Surovikin Line, represent a combination of minefields, vehicle trenches, “dragon’s teeth” and trenches strategically located throughout Russian-occupied territories in Ukraine. Especially in the south, in the Zaporizhzhia region, Ukrainian troops have recently made progress and recaptured areas from this defensive line. Business Insider highlights how crucial these developments could be for the future course of the conflict in Ukraine.