Despite being reported as dying as a Major General, we could find no evidence that he was ever promoted beyond the rank of Colonel. He attempted to run for political office in 2020, but was denied because he failed to turn in the proper paperwork. In the public statement about this, he is specifically called a retired Colonel. Retired officers do not continue receiving promotions. https://1000inf.ru/news/96809/Further confirmation of his rank came on February 17, 2023, when his name and rank were added to this plaque at the Kolomna Higher Artillery Command and Engineering School.