Russia’s defence minister refused to answer the question of whether an investigation is underway against General Sergei Surovikin, Interfax reports.

After a news conference following Russian-Turkish negotiations, journalists asked Mr Shoigu: “What’s wrong with Surovikin, and is there an investigation underway against him?”

He said nothing in response.

Later, journalist Ksenia Sobchak published a photo of Surovikin with his family on his Telegram channel. “General Sergei Surovikin left. Alive, healthy, at home, with family, in Moscow,” she wrote.

Explained: General Surovikin, known as “General Armageddon” for his ruthless tactics in Syria, served as deputy commander of Russian forces in Ukraine. Experts believe Vladimir Putin’s decision to put him in charge reflected his brutal reputation. During Yevgeny Prigozhin’s uprising, Gen Surovikin called on Wagner fighters to return to base and obey Mr Putin, but questions about his knowledge persist. 

Rumours of his whereabouts – and allegiance – began swirling in the aftermath of the Wagner Group’s mutiny in June.

A New York Times report, based on US intelligence, suggested he had advance knowledge of the mutiny, sparking investigations for complicity. The Kremlin downplayed the report, citing speculation. While some Russian sources claim Gen Surovikin’s arrest, Sky News couldn’t confirm this.