Albrecht von Roon vs Valery Gerasimov

Roon, as Prussian War Minister, implemented a major reorganization of the Prussian Army. He increased the size of the standing army, extended conscription, and reformed the officer corps. These reforms created the military force that would later win the wars of German unification.

Roon's army reforms led to a constitutional crisis in Prussia when the Landtag refused to approve the budget. Roon advised King Wilhelm I to appoint Otto von Bismarck as Minister President. Bismarck then governed without a legal budget, implementing the reforms anyway.

Roon's reformed Prussian Army fought the Austro-Prussian War. The army's superior organization, training, and equipment led to a decisive Prussian victory at the Battle of K

Gerasimov was appointed commander of the Moscow Military District. He oversaw training and readiness of troops in the region during a period of military reform.

Gerasimov was appointed Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces. He became the top military officer, responsible for strategic planning and operations.

Gerasimov published an article outlining the role of non-military methods in modern warfare, including information warfare and political subversion. This became known as the Gerasimov Doctrine.

Gerasimov planned and oversaw the Russian military intervention in Syria. The campaign supported the Assad government and demonstrated Russian military capabilities.

Gerasimov commanded the Russian military during the invasion of Ukraine. The campaign faced major operational failures, including the failed assault on Kyiv and subsequent retreats.