In a startling development, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of Russia’s Wagner mercenary group, has declared an armed rebellion against Russian military leadership. Prigozhin made this announcement just hours after the Kremlin accused him of inciting armed rebellion. He stated that his Wagner fighters had crossed the border from Ukraine into Russia and entered the city of Rostov-on-Don. Vowing to “go all the way” to topple the country’s military leadership.
Prigozhin’s declaration comes amid growing tensions between the Wagner Group. A private army of mercenaries, and the regular Russian army. They are in disagreement over the conduct of the war in Ukraine. Prigozhin has been publicly criticizing Russian military leadership in recent months. Moreover, culminated in his accusations that the military launched a deadly missile strike on his troops. Although he provided no evidence to support his claim.
The Russian authorities swiftly denied the allegations and called on Prigozhin to cease his “illegal actions.” They labelled his actions as a threat to national security and demanded an end to the armed rebellion. President Vladimir Putin is reportedly receiving continuous updates on the situation, with security being heightened at prime locations in Moscow.
In his audio message posted on the social media platform Telegram. Prigozhin vowed to seek justice for the loss of his troops and hold accountable those responsible for their deaths. He warned that anyone who resisted his forces would be considered a threat and destroyed. Including checkpoints and aviation encountered along the way. Prigozhin emphasized that the presidential power, government, police, and Russian guard would continue functioning normally. Asserting that his actions did not constitute a military coup but rather a “march of justice.”
Governors Urge Calm as Prigozhin’s Rebellion Unfolds; International Community Watches Closely
The governor of Rostov-on-Don urged citizens to remain calm and stay indoors, while the governor of Russia’s Lipetsk region advised residents not to travel south. Security measures have been tightened in Lipetsk, focusing on protecting critical infrastructure facilities.
The situation has drawn international attention, with the United States monitoring the events closely and vowing to consult with its allies. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense has also stated that it is closely watching the situation.
Meanwhile, General Sergei Surovikin, the deputy head of the Russian forces in Ukraine, whom Prigozhin previously praised, appealed to him to stop the convoys and return them to their bases. Other senior military commanders, such as Lieutenant General Vladimir Alekseyev, condemned Prigozhin’s actions as a betrayal to the country and the president, referring to it as a “stab in the back.”
As this developing story unfolds, the implications of Prigozhin’s armed rebellion and its potential impact on the region remain uncertain. The situation continues to evolve rapidly, and further updates are awaited as authorities attempt to restore order and address the growing crisis.