A Russian military commander known as the “meatgrinder” has vanished from public view after being dismissed by the Kremlin for severe battlefield mistakes and troop losses. Sukhrab Akhmedov, a Dagestani officer, led operations that resulted in high casualty rates due to reckless frontal assaults. Despite previously being favored by the Kremlin, Akhmedov’s unpopular decisions led to minimal gains and significant Russian losses on the frontlines referred to as the “meatgrinder.”
Reports suggest that Akhmedov and other senior officers were responsible for sacrificing North Korean troops in both Ukraine and Russia. Speculation indicates that he may have been forced into early retirement due to his dismal record of failed missions and declining troop morale. Observers noted that while Russia has a history of sending large numbers of troops into battle, Akhmedov’s command was particularly disastrous.
Allegedly dismissed after a four-year tenure, Akhmedov’s failures included insufficient progress in Sumy and Donetsk battlefields, resulting in diminished morale among troops. In a notable incident, Russian forces made initial advancements in Donetsk but were ultimately repelled by Ukrainian special forces after a prolonged struggle.
Russian military bloggers claim that Akhmedov’s removal stemmed from repeated failed assaults in the Dobropilla area, leading to substantial Russian casualties. Under his command, several naval infantry brigades suffered heavy losses, contributing to his downfall. Previous complaints about his leadership arose during a Ukrainian counter-attack in Luhansk in 2023, where Russian troops suffered significant losses.
Akhmedov’s disregard for troop safety became evident during the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, marked by unsuccessful missions near Kyiv. Despite his rapid rise in the Russian military, he lacked combat experience in Ukraine or Syria before the conflict escalated. It is believed that his neglect for casualties prompted discontent among his troops, who reportedly expressed concerns to higher-ranking officials.
Considered a rising star within the Russian military, Akhmedov’s career, which began in elite Naval Infantry units, took a sharp downturn due to his failed tactics and high casualty rates. His absence from public view following his dismissal indicates a significant shift in military leadership amid ongoing conflicts.