Apparently, a private military apparatus named “Wagner Group” that has traditionally served the interests of the Russian Vladimir Putin, now took the weird approach of attacking Russian defense installations. Apparently, this episode is entirely an effort directed at Russian military defense officials, not necessarily the Kremlin. Even so, it’s tough to believe that Putin will shy away from supporting his own military officials since they directly control the security and military apparatus so critical for his foreign policy.
What Happened In Russia?
The Wagner group took a bold stance today against the Russian government today in an unfortunate escalation of conflict in the region. The leader of the group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, is a former ally of Vladimir Putin who met the current Russian leader in their early days as powerbrokers in St. Petersburg. Described by western analysts as a tough guy, Prigozhin is likely aware that Putin will not forgive his desperate betrayal and, perhaps, on a suicide mission towards Moscow.
Still, the Russian state is concerned enough to deploy various measures, such as travel restrictions, Chechen fighters to the city of Rostrow, Russia and has also issued an arrest warrant for Prigozhin.
In publicized online videos, Prigozhin was careful to squarely place his critique towards Russian military generals. Curiously, Putin himself is not being criticized by Prigozhin’s videos or actions. It appears that munitions, armaments and other items necessary for combating Ukrainian forces are being withheld from his frontline soldiers. Additionally, a missile strike was launched at his soldiers, according to his statements.
Russia Issues Arrest Warrant for Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin | WSJ – YouTube
Either way, Putin took great care to address the Russian public. The Russian Defense Ministry has officially told Wagner group mercenaries to stand down. No one wants to see a scenario in which Russian nuclear missiles fall in the wrong hands, with tactical nuclear armaments in Belarus.
Putin Address:
Apparently, the Wagner group head, Yevgeny Prigozhin and his Wagner mercenaries are marching towards Moscow in a surprise attack against the Russian president. Recently, Prigozhin also loudly clamored for weapons and munitions in the frontlines with Ukraine. This shocked many western observers due to the propensity of Russian bureaucrats to defer to policy silently and unquestionably.
Some Western officials claim that the Russian military may be staging a theatric military and tactical event to march his 25000 mercenaries to rid Putin of his potential enemies within Russian military ranks. There is some theatrics for sure, but the end game may be to enable Putin to maintain power.
Putin has stated that there is betrayal afloat and appears to be acting against Prigozhin.
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