Top Russian General Inspects Troops Amid Criticism and War Crime Accusations

Valery Gerasimov, Russia's chief of general staff, inspected troops in Ukraine, setting further tasks for commanders. Despite setbacks and criticisms, Gerasimov oversaw gradual advances. The International Criminal Court issued warrants for Gerasimov and ex-defence minister Sergei Shoigu for suspected war crimes, which Russia denies, dismissing the court’s authority.

Valery Gerasimov, chief of Russia's general staff, inspected Russian forces in the combat zone in Ukraine, according to the Russian defence ministry.

Gerasimov, who has faced criticism over setbacks, reviewed progress and set new tasks for commanders. He has been a frequent visitor to the frontlines during the two and a half years of the conflict.

While Russia controls nearly a fifth of Ukraine, it has yet to achieve a strategic breakthrough. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Gerasimov and former defence minister Sergei Shoigu, accusing them of directing attacks on civilians. Russia denies these accusations, citing its non-membership of the court.