Putin does not like his army commander

Putin and His Army Commander: A Silent War Amidst a Prolonged Conflict

Growing Tensions Between Putin and General Gerasimov

A recent video clip that has spread widely among analysts and politicians reveals growing unease between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Army Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov. The footage shows the two men sitting at an observation post during large-scale military exercises in Russia's Far East, maintaining a notable physical and emotional distance. Putin, holding binoculars, appears tense, while Gerasimov nervously runs his fingers through his hair and arranges papers—signs interpreted by many as indications of an internal rift.

Western Speculations on a Kremlin Power Struggle

The clip sparked widespread speculation, including comments from figures like former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt, who suggested that Putin’s refusal to even engage in conversation with Gerasimov points to deeper issues. Another video shows Putin joking comfortably with Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu while Gerasimov remains somewhat sidelined. This contrast has led many Western observers to believe a silent power struggle or falling out is underway between the president and the army chief.

Reasons Behind Putin’s Discomfort with Gerasimov

Putin’s apparent dissatisfaction stems largely from the military’s poor performance in the ongoing war in Ukraine. From the onset, Russian forces seemed unprepared and ineffective, leading to significant setbacks. Despite this, Putin has refrained from publicly punishing Gerasimov, likely to avoid damaging the morale of Russia’s armed forces. Dismissing the army chief would implicitly acknowledge military failure—something Putin desperately wants to avoid amid Western scrutiny and domestic expectations.

Why Gerasimov Remains in Position

Several factors explain why Gerasimov remains at the helm despite Putin’s dissatisfaction:

• Maintaining Morale: Removing the chief of staff could erode the confidence of troops and the public.

• Putin’s Image: The president cultivates an image of absolute control; ousting Gerasimov might signal weakness or internal disarray.

• Political Calculations: The risk of destabilizing the military hierarchy and encouraging rival factions might outweigh the benefits of dismissal.

Gerasimov’s Position and Possible Futures

Aware of Putin’s displeasure, Gerasimov faces an uncertain future. He may be regarded as a scapegoat should the war continue to falter, yet he currently remains indispensable. The ongoing conflict and its outcomes will likely determine his fate.

Western media often speculate about a potential Kremlin coup as a way to remove Putin, echoing historical parallels such as the failed 1944 "Operation Valkyrie" plot against Hitler. However, such scenarios remain speculative and depend heavily on how the war unfolds.

Conclusion: The Kremlin’s Uncertain Path

The tension between Vladimir Putin and Valery Gerasimov exemplifies the challenges faced by Russia’s leadership during a prolonged and costly conflict. While Western observers hope for internal cracks that might lead to a change in Russian leadership, the reality remains fluid and unpredictable. Only time and the evolving situation in Ukraine will reveal whether this silent war within the Kremlin will escalate or be resolved quietly..