Originally Syndicated on November 11, 2023 @ 7:28 am
Table of Contents
Early life and career beginning
Aleksandr Vladimirovich Dvornikov is a distinguished military figure with a robust career spanning over three decades within the Soviet and Russian armed forces. Born on August 22, 1961, in Ussuriysk, his journey commenced with enrollment in the Ussuriysk Suvorov Military School in 1978, eventually joining the Soviet Army.
Dvornikov’s career trajectory was marked by a series of significant appointments and achievements. After completing his education at the Moscow High Command Training School in 1982, he served in various capacities in the Far Eastern Military District, progressing from platoon and company commander to assuming roles of higher responsibility, including battalion chief of staff. His dedication and proficiency led to his graduation from the Frunze Military Academy in 1991.
Transitioning into the Russian Ground Forces, Dvornikov held pivotal positions such as commanding the 154th Separate Motor Rifle Battalion and subsequently the 10th Guards Tank Division’s 248th Motor Rifle Regiment. Notable recognition came his way in 1996 with the receipt of the Order of Military Merit and the Order of Courage for his exemplary service.
His leadership continued to evolve as he took charge of various divisions and military districts, leaving a notable mark in each role. From commanding the 1st Guards Motor Rifle Regiment in the Moscow Military District to leading the 19th Motor Rifle Division in the North Caucasus Military District, Aleksandr Vladimirovich Dvornikov‘s adeptness was consistently acknowledged, culminating in prestigious accolades like the Order “For Merit to the Fatherland.”
Ascension and Triumph in Military Leadership
Dvornikov’s career saw elevation through positions of increasing responsibility and honour, including his tenure as chief of staff and first deputy commander of the Central Military District. His outstanding performance led to his appointment as the commander of the Russian Armed Forces in Syria during the country’s military intervention. His leadership during this phase earned him the esteemed title of Hero of the Russian Federation in recognition of his exemplary command and strategic prowess.
Following his significant contribution to Syria, Aleksandr Vladimirovich Dvornikov assumed the role of acting commander in the Southern Military District, which was later confirmed. Notably, his distinguished service was acknowledged with a promotion to the rank of army general by a decree from President Putin in June 2020.
Dvornikov’s military journey is characterized by his strategic acumen, leadership, and remarkable service to the armed forces, showcasing his unwavering dedication and exceptional leadership skills.
Leadership Changes in the 2022 Russian Invasion of Ukraine
During the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, there was a notable change in military leadership. In the beginning, there was no single authoritative figure overseeing Russian military operations. Instead, multiple leaders were in charge of different fronts. But on April 10, 2022, a significant change occurred when Dvornikov took full control of these operations.
Although this transition was significant, it did experience its fluctuations. On June 3, 2022, reports were suggesting that Colonel General Gennady Zhidko could potentially replace Aleksandr Vladimirovich Dvornikov. However, there were conflicting statements regarding this matter. In June, Ukrainian governor Serhiy Haidai claimed that Dvornikov would remain in command until June 10, particularly about the Battle of Severodonetsk.
On June 25, 2022, more updates came out revealing that Dvornikov had been removed from his commanding position. On October 8, 2022, the Russian Defense Ministry took steps to fill the leadership gap by appointing Air Force General Sergey Surovikin as the overall commander of the Russian forces involved in the conflict in Ukraine. It is worth noting that the announcement did not specifically mention who Surovikin would be replacing in this important role.
Controversial Military Tactics and Aleksandr Vladimirovich Dvornikov’s Reputation
The international press often mentions Dvornikov’s military reputation, highlighting the harsh conduct of his military campaigns, especially in Chechnya and Syria. He has been accused of employing scorched earth tactics. During an interview, retired U.S. Navy Admiral James G. Stavridis mentioned a nickname he claimed was commonly used by Dvornikov, referring to him as the “Butcher of Syria.”
According to the Institute for the Study of War, Dvornikov’s administration resulted in a considerable number of civilian casualties. However, when considering the overall operation, it was not exceptionally violent. This is because the Russian military deliberately targeted Syrian civilians and vital infrastructure throughout their intervention in Syria.
An investigation conducted by Cathrin Schaer and Emad Hassan, which was published in the German state-funded media Deutsche Welle, reveals that the statistics indicate that Aleksandr Vladimirovich Dvornikov did not introduce a new and more violent phase in the Syrian war.
Key Points
- Aleksandr Vladimirovich Dvornikov, a distinguished military figure, rose through the ranks from platoon commander to key leadership roles in Soviet and Russian armed forces.
- Notable achievements include commanding in Syria, recognized with the title of Hero of the Russian Federation for strategic prowess.
- He was appointed during the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine but faced controversy and fluctuation in his command, eventually being replaced.
- Reports mentioned a potential replacement, Colonel General Gennady Zhidko, but the leadership shift faced conflicting statements.
- Dvornikov’s reputation is marked by controversial military tactics, accused of harsh conduct in military campaigns in Chechnya and Syria.
- The international press highlighted allegations of employing scorched earth tactics and significant civilian casualties during his administration.
- Despite accusations, investigations suggest his command didn’t significantly alter the overall level of violence during military interventions.
- Air Force General Sergey Surovikin was appointed to lead Russian forces in the Ukraine conflict, succeeding the position Dvornikov previously held.
