A notable figure in the Russian military, General Major Ivan Popov, who has openly criticized the nations Ministry of Defense, is reportedly on the verge of being reinstated to the front lines of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This development comes amidst various legal challenges he has faced, including accusations of fraud, as reported by CNN.

Once the commander of Russia's 58th Army, Popov was removed from his position and subsequently detained after making public denouncements of the Russian military leadership in 2023. His legal counsel, alongside officials from the Ministry of Defense, has advocated for his appointment to lead a notorious unit composed of former convicts. These detachments are known for suffering extreme casualties in the ongoing war against Ukraine.

According to Sergei Buinovsky, Popovs lawyer, there is a joint request to suspend the ongoing case against him, coupled with a recommendation that he be sent back to Ukraine. Buinovsky stated, We, together with the Ministry of Defense, have a motion to suspend the case with the positive decision to send Ivan to [Ukraine], as conveyed by Russian media sources.

In a letter addressed to President Vladimir Putin earlier this year in March, Popov expressed his desire to return to military service, suggesting that this reinstatement could potentially lead to the suspension of his criminal trial. His letter highlights a deep-rooted loyalty to his country and a willingness to continue fighting against Ukrainian forces.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, Rebekah Koffler, a former defense intelligence officer and author of the book Putins Playbook, speculated that Putin might intervene in Popovs case. Koffler noted, Putin routinely weighs in on high-profile cases, especially when Western media is involved. She further elaborated on Putin's unpredictable nature, stating he might either allow the legal proceedings to continue, possibly resulting in Popov serving a prison sentence, or he could opt to deploy him to the front lines in Ukraine, framing it as an act of patriotism and propaganda.

However, leading a penal detachment, which Popov is being considered to command, is often regarded as a virtual death sentence. Russian military tactics have frequently involved using these groups for high-risk operations, resulting in substantial loss of life.

In his correspondence with Putin, Popov lamented, I was subjected to unjust prosecution, while reaffirming his commitment to continue battling the enemy, stating that he wishes to continue smashing the enemy in accordance with the oath I took. Buinovsky emphasized that Popov appreciates the confidence the president has shown in him.

As the former commander of the 58th Armyresponsible for nearly 50,000 soldiersPopov previously garnered significant respect from his troops. He was instrumental in repelling a Ukrainian counter-offensive that was heavily reliant on NATO-supplied tanks. Following this success, however, he publicly criticized top Russian commanders, holding them accountable for what he termed a treacherous attack from within that compromised his forces at a critical moment.

In the aftermath of these events, Popov was reassigned to a post in Syria, but legal troubles related to fraud charges eventually led to his court appearances. He continues to maintain his innocence and has retained a network of allies in Moscow who sympathize with his viewpoints regarding the failings of Russian military leadership.