The BBC first reported on Saturday that the general had been appointed to lead Russia’s ongoing offensive in Ukraine, citing Western officials. Prior to Dvornikov’s appointment, no commander-in-chief had led Russian forces on Ukrainian soil, the Times reported, citing US officials. A State Department spokesman told The Hill that they would not comment on the general who would lead the Russian invasion, but said “it is clear that this war did not go according to plan for Putin – a quick victory prevented Ukraine”. “This war has a very severe impact on the people of Ukraine, but it also has a significant impact on Russian forces,” he said. “This war was a strategic blunder that left Russia weaker and isolated on the world stage, while the people of Ukraine have inspired the world with their bravery.” The appointment comes as Russian forces have completely withdrawn from positions in northern Ukraine, around Kyiv and Chernihiv, after failing to occupy the Ukrainian capital and were even pushed back as they tried to occupy it. Troops have moved to Belarus and western Russia to relocate with weapons and supplies in preparation for an attack on eastern Ukraine. “At this juncture, we believe that Russia is reviewing its military objectives,” said White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan this week. “Russia is repositioning its forces to focus its offensive operations in eastern and southern Ukraine instead of targeting most of the territory.” US and Ukrainian officials have warned that an impending Russian attack on Ukraine’s Donbass region would be horrific and bloody. Power restored to 1.3 million in Puerto Rico amid blackout Congestion: Border problems left behind by Title 42 The Times reported that Dvornikov, commander of Russia’s southern military district, has significant combat experience in Syria, where he has commanded Russian forces for a year since 2015. Western officials and human rights groups have condemned the tactics used by Russian forces in Dvornikov-led Syria, according to the Times, including allegedly targeting hospitals and neighborhoods. – Updated at 9:52 p.m.
