Russia: In a startling turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner Group, a private army known for its involvement in Russia’s actions in Ukraine, has declared his determination to topple the military leadership in Moscow.Prigozhin accuses the Russian military of launching a deadly attack on his troops, leading him to make a firm promise to “go all the way” to bring down the current leadership. In an audio message, he called on Russians to join his cause, warning against resistance and proclaiming it as a “march of justice.”
This development arises from a longstanding feud between Prigozhin and Moscow’s military leadership, which has escalated over recent months. In response to Prigozhin’s declaration, security measures in Moscow have been intensified, with critical facilities receiving reinforced protection. The Russian government has implemented an “anti-terror operation regime” in the capital. A prominent Russian general has appealed to Prigozhin to cease his actions, indicating that external adversaries eagerly await a further deterioration of the country’s internal political situation.
Meanwhile, Ukraine is closely monitoring the situation, hoping that rival factions within Russia will weaken each other in their pursuit of power and wealth.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has called on the Russian population to rally behind President Vladimir Putin following what he referred to as an “armed mutiny” by the Wagner mercenary group.
Putin says Russia is fighting a "very difficult fight for its future" against Ukraine and the west.
"Actions that break up our unity are defection from our people, from our comrades fighting at the front. It's a stab in the back for our country and our people." pic.twitter.com/PgIfxxPj25
— max seddon (@maxseddon) June 24, 2023
