Stanislav Krapivnik: Putin Brings Back General Armageddon to End the War

Summary

Host Glenn Diesen speaks with former U.S. Army officer Stanislav Krapivnik about the reported return of General Sergei Surovikin, nicknamed “General Armageddon,” and what it might mean for the war. Krapivnik says Surovikin’s earlier reassignment may have reflected both criticism of the Russian withdrawal from Kherson and his perceived closeness to Yevgeny Prigozhin. He says Surovikin was transferred to Africa, where he worked with Russian forces after the Wagner group was incorporated into the Russian military structure.

Krapivnik argues that Russia is shifting toward a more systematic campaign against Ukraine’s logistics. He says bridges need not be completely demolished to be rendered unusable, and claims that attacks on bridges, railways, fuel infrastructure, energy supplies, and warehouses could obstruct the movement of troops and equipment and worsen shortages. He presents alleged damage to Kyiv’s infrastructure and residents’ departure as signs of mounting pressure. These claims and assessments are Krapivnik’s; the interview does not independently verify them.

The discussion also considers the consequences for civilians and Ukrainian politics. Krapivnik predicts that worsening conditions could prompt more people to leave cities such as Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Sumy. He suggests that a government relocation from Kyiv could contribute to instability. He also speculates that an emptied Kyiv might face disorder, citing the large number of weapons distributed during the early phase of the war and asserting that underground armed groups remain in the city. Krapivnik further claims that Ukrainian leaders have kept civilians in danger zones for military reasons.

On possible Western escalation, Krapivnik argues that a NATO no-fly zone, the deployment of troops under NATO flags, or an attempt to blockade Russia or seize Kaliningrad could lead to direct war with Russia. He describes Kaliningrad as strategically important and heavily defended, and warns that an attack there could draw in the Baltic states and other NATO countries. He says he does not expect Russia to use nuclear weapons, but predicts a much broader conventional conflict if NATO forces intervene directly. Diesen raises these scenarios as questions; Krapivnik’s answers are presented as his views and predictions, not as established outcomes.

Presenters and Contributors

• Glenn Diesen — host
• Stanislav Krapivnik — guest and commentator