May 4, 2026

Russia names general sanctioned over Bucha killings as new Aerospace Forces commander

Colonel General Alexander Chaiko has been named commander-in-chief of Russia’s Aerospace Forces, sources told RBC. The appointment was also reported by the pro-war Telegram blogger Fighterbomber.

Russia names general sanctioned over Bucha killings as new Aerospace Forces commander

TL;DR

  • Colonel General Alexander Chaiko appointed commander-in-chief of Russia's Aerospace Forces.
  • Chaiko previously served on the General Staff, commanded Russian forces in Syria, and led the Eastern Military District.
  • He was awarded Hero of Russia in 2020.
  • Chaiko is sanctioned by the EU and UK for alleged responsibility in mass killings of Ukrainians in Bucha.
  • An investigation linked units under his command to civilian killings in the Kyiv Region.
  • Human Rights Watch implicated him in bombing hospitals and schools in Syria.
  • Reports suggest his security was reinforced following a discussion of Ukrainian strikes on Russian military figures.

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