President Vladimir Putin has ordered Wagner fighters to sign an oath of allegiance to the Russian state after a deadly plane crash believed to have killed Yevgeny Prigozhin, the volatile chief of the mercenary group.

Putin orders Wagner fighters to sign oath of allegiance

Anyone who crosses Putin either dies or disappears, or is jailed. The Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin has died in a plane crash. This comes 2 months after Wagner led an unsuccessful mutiny against Putin's aide. Why did Putin wait so long to strike?

Gravitas | Wagner Chief Prigozhin is Dead: Why Putin took two months to strike

<p>Russia on Friday announced that it has recovered 10 bodies and flight recorders from the scene of the plane crash that is presumed to have killed Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin.</p>

<p>Investigators are now carrying out "molecular-genetic tests" on the remains.</p>

<h2><strong>The need for such a test</strong></h2>

<p>As per the passenger list, Prigozhin and his right-hand man Dmitry Utkin, as well as five other passengers and three crew members, were on board of the Embraer Legacy 600 jet, when it crashed in the Tver region, north-west of the Russian capital Moscow on Wednesday.</p>

<p>However, in spite of the flight manifest, there have been questions over whether the Kremlin had absolute confirmation that the Wagner chief was in fact on board the aircraft.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-killed-yevgeny-prigozhin-us-preliminary-findings-discover-traces-of-sabotage-628904">Bomb in a wine crate aboard Prigozhin's plane led to the crash, reports suggest</a></strong></p>

<p>To "establish their (passengers) identities" Russia's Investigative Committee said it was carrying out "molecular genetic analyses".</p>

<p>Speaking to the BBC over a conference call that included journalists from other publications, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said there were "lots of speculation" around the "tragic" deaths of the 10 people in Wednesday's air crash near Moscow.</p>

<p>"In the West, of course, this speculation comes from a certain angle. It's all a complete lie," he said, adding, "We don't have many facts at the moment, the facts need to be clarified during the official investigation which is being carried out now."</p>

<h2><strong>Putin denies ordering the killing</strong></h2>

<p>Talking to BBC on Friday, the Russian President Vladimir Putin denied giving the order for Prigozhin's assassination and labelled the rumours a "complete lie."</p>

<p>Prigozhin, who was popularly known as Putin's chef, led a mutiny of his mercenary fighters in June.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-warned-wagner-group-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-about-threats-to-his-life-belarusian-president-lukashenko-629273">I warned Wagner group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin about threats to his life: Belarusian President Lukashenko</a></strong></p>

<p>The soon-aborted armed revolt was described as "treachery" by Putin. However, later a deal was struck that gave the Wagner mercenaries the options to either join the Russian army or go to Moscow's ally Belarus.</p>

<p>In spite of that, after the rebellion, many observers had reportedly described the Wagner chief as a "dead man walking," and had argued that Putin's forgiveness may not come. Now, western nations and Kremlin&nbsp;critics&nbsp;have been speculating that Prigozhin may have been assassinated.</p>

<p>Since the plane came down, there has been a frenzied speculation about what caused the crash. However, the exact cause is still not known. The Kremlin has announced that it has opened a probe into alleged violations of air traffic rules by the aircraft, but has maintained its silence otherwise, reports AFP. Meanwhile, on Friday, US President Joe Biden said that his nation was trying to "nail down" precisely what brought down the plane.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Russia on Friday announced that it has recovered 10 bodies and flight recorders from the scene of the plane crash that is presumed to have killed Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin.

Russia on Friday announced that it has recovered 10 bodies and flight recorders from the scene of the plane crash that is presumed to have killed Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin. Investigators are now carrying out "molecular-genetic tests" on the remains. The need for such a test As per the passenger list, Prigozhin and his right-hand man Dmitry Utkin, as well as five other passengers and three crew members, were on board of the Embraer Legacy 600 jet, when it crashed in the Tver region, north-west of the Russian capital Moscow on Wednesday. However, in spite of the flight manifest, there have been questions over whether the Kremlin had absolute confirmation that the Wagner chief was in fact on board the aircraft. Also read | Bomb in a wine crate aboard Prigozhin's plane led to the crash, reports suggest To "establish their (passengers) identities" Russia's Investigative Committee said it was carrying out "molecular genetic analyses". Speaking to the BBC over a conference call that included journalists from other publications, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said there were "lots of speculation" around the "tragic" deaths of the 10 people in Wednesday's air crash near Moscow. "In the West, of course, this speculation comes from a certain angle. It's all a complete lie," he said, adding, "We don't have many facts at the moment, the facts need to be clarified during the official investigation which is being carried out now." Putin denies ordering the killing Talking to BBC on Friday, the Russian President Vladimir Putin denied giving the order for Prigozhin's assassination and labelled the rumours a "complete lie." Prigozhin, who was popularly known as Putin's chef, led a mutiny of his mercenary fighters in June. Also read | I warned Wagner group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin about threats to his life: Belarusian President Lukashenko The soon-aborted armed revolt was described as "treachery" by Putin. However, later a deal was struck that gave the Wagner mercenaries the options to either join the Russian army or go to Moscow's ally Belarus. In spite of that, after the rebellion, many observers had reportedly described the Wagner chief as a "dead man walking," and had argued that Putin's forgiveness may not come. Now, western nations and Kremlin critics have been speculating that Prigozhin may have been assassinated. Since the plane came down, there has been a frenzied speculation about what caused the crash. However, the exact cause is still not known. The Kremlin has announced that it has opened a probe into alleged violations of air traffic rules by the aircraft, but has maintained its silence otherwise, reports AFP. Meanwhile, on Friday, US President Joe Biden said that his nation was trying to "nail down" precisely what brought down the plane. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Uncertainty persists over Wagner chief's death, Russia to conduct molecular genetic test on remains from crash

<p>The plane crash that claimed the life of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the infamous leader of the Wagner mercenary group, has ignited a whirlwind of speculation. The incident, which occurred on on Wednesday, August 23, has not only cast doubts on the circumstances of the crash but also resurrected an old video clip of Russian President Vladimir Putin discussing the topic of 'betrayal'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yevgeny Prigozhin, often described as a one-time confidante of President Putin, rose to infamy as the leader of the Wagner mercenary group.</p>

<p>His notoriety was further cemented when he orchestrated an armed rebellion against the Russian military leadership in June, a bold move that would shake the foundations of Putin's authority.</p>

<h2><strong>Brief rebellion and a swift truce</strong></h2>

<p>The rebellion led by Prigozhin was a daring challenge to Putin's rule, one that the Russian President swiftly condemned as "treason." Surprisingly, within a mere 24 hours, a truce was brokered, owing&nbsp;to the intervention of Belarus' president. This turn of events raised eyebrows among Kremlin observers, who questioned the durability of this sudden ceasefire, given Putin's history of eliminating his opponents, a charge that Russian officials vehemently deny.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-wagner-mercenary-group-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-dies-in-plane-crash-628479">Russia's Wagner mercenary group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin 'dies' in plane crash, say reports</a></p>

<h2><strong>Putin's unforgiving stance on 'betrayal'</strong></h2>

<p>A viral 2018 interview featuring Putin has resurfaced following the plane crash. In this interview, when asked if he is a forgiving person, Putin responded affirmatively but added a caveat, stating that there are limits to his forgiveness. When probed further about what he cannot forgive, Putin's response was unequivocal: "Betrayal."</p>

<p>WATCH THE VIDEO HERE:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The one thing I can’t forgive is betrayal.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Prigozhin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Prigozhin</a> <a href="https://t.co/qYPjxLlp3c">pic.twitter.com/qYPjxLlp3c</a></p>
— Saif (@SaifAlThafir1) <a href="https://twitter.com/SaifAlThafir1/status/1694405647150813691?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Uncertainty had shrouded Prigozhin's fate since the short-lived rebellion that posed a significant challenge to Putin's authority. In a televised address, Putin had vowed to punish those responsible for the mutiny, labelling Prigozhin's actions as both "betrayal" and "treason."</p>

<h2><strong>International reactions</strong></h2>

<p>Upon hearing the initial reports of the plane crash, the United States swiftly reacted. President Joe Biden expressed a lack of surprise regarding the incident and hinted at Putin's involvement in many Russian affairs. Elon Musk, the billionaire investor, and owner of 'X', took to social media to comment on Prigozhin's death.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Prigozhin Plane Crash: Wagner chief loses life in a deadly crash</strong></p>

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<p>Musk's response, "Longer than I expected," followed by the suggestion of a potential psychological operation (psy-op), added an additional layer of intrigue to an already mysterious situation.</p>

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The plane crash that claimed the life of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the infamous leader of the Wagner mercenary group, has ignited a whirlwind of speculation. The incident, which occurred on on Wednesday, August 23, has not only cast doubts on the circumstances of the crash but also resurrected an old video clip of Russian President Vladimir Putin discussing the topic of 'betrayal'.

The plane crash that claimed the life of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the infamous leader of the Wagner mercenary group, has ignited a whirlwind of speculation. The incident, which occurred on on Wednesday, August 23, has not only cast doubts on the circumstances of the crash but also resurrected an old video clip of Russian President Vladimir Putin discussing the topic of 'betrayal'. Yevgeny Prigozhin, often described as a one-time confidante of President Putin, rose to infamy as the leader of the Wagner mercenary group. His notoriety was further cemented when he orchestrated an armed rebellion against the Russian military leadership in June, a bold move that would shake the foundations of Putin's authority. Brief rebellion and a swift truce The rebellion led by Prigozhin was a daring challenge to Putin's rule, one that the Russian President swiftly condemned as "treason." Surprisingly, within a mere 24 hours, a truce was brokered, owing to the intervention of Belarus' president. This turn of events raised eyebrows among Kremlin observers, who questioned the durability of this sudden ceasefire, given Putin's history of eliminating his opponents, a charge that Russian officials vehemently deny. Also read | Russia's Wagner mercenary group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin 'dies' in plane crash, say reports Putin's unforgiving stance on 'betrayal' A viral 2018 interview featuring Putin has resurfaced following the plane crash. In this interview, when asked if he is a forgiving person, Putin responded affirmatively but added a caveat, stating that there are limits to his forgiveness. When probed further about what he cannot forgive, Putin's response was unequivocal: "Betrayal." WATCH THE VIDEO HERE: The one thing I can’t forgive is betrayal.#Prigozhin pic.twitter.com/qYPjxLlp3c — Saif (@SaifAlThafir1) August 23, 2023 × Uncertainty had shrouded Prigozhin's fate since the short-lived rebellion that posed a significant challenge to Putin's authority. In a televised address, Putin had vowed to punish those responsible for the mutiny, labelling Prigozhin's actions as both "betrayal" and "treason." International reactions Upon hearing the initial reports of the plane crash, the United States swiftly reacted. President Joe Biden expressed a lack of surprise regarding the incident and hinted at Putin's involvement in many Russian affairs. Elon Musk, the billionaire investor, and owner of 'X', took to social media to comment on Prigozhin's death. Also watch | Prigozhin Plane Crash: Wagner chief loses life in a deadly crash Musk's response, "Longer than I expected," followed by the suggestion of a potential psychological operation (psy-op), added an additional layer of intrigue to an already mysterious situation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Prigozhin's death sparks buzz of intrigue as Putin's 'unforgiving' side resurfaces in old video. WATCH

Breaking silence over the Russian plane crash, President Vladimir Putin expressed condolences for Wagner chief's death. He called the Prigozhin, a talented man who made mistakes. Yevgeny Prigozhin attempted a mutiny against the Russian government in June.

Putin condoles Wagner Chief's Yevgeny Prigozhin death | World News | WION

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- Russian President Vladimir Putin finally broke his silence over the apparent death of Wagner ChiefYevgeny Prigozhin while expressing condolences over the plane crash. Putin says the Wagner boss was a talented man who made mistakes.

What's next for Wagner group after Prigozhin's death?

How did the Wagner chief die?

<p>The Kremlin has rejected allegations of its involvement in the killing of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin. This comes as US officials have suggested that Russian President Vladimir Putin might have ordered Prigozhin's killing and it could have been an intentional plane explosion. However, in a new statement, the Kremlin has dismissed these claims terming it an "absolute lie". Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated, “There is a lot of speculation around this disaster, around the tragic death of the passengers on the plane, including Yevgeny Prigozhin. Of course, in the west all these speculations are presented from a certain angle. This is all an absolute lie.”</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-with-prigozhin-dead-wagner-groups-bloodied-past-tumultuous-present-uncertain-future-629170">With Prigozhin dead, Wagner group's bloodied past, tumultuous present &amp; uncertain future</a></p>

<p>The circumstances of Prigozhin's death, in a plane crash or due to an explosion, are under debate. Russian President Vladimir Putin also issued a decree requiring allegiance oaths from Wagner and other private military company personnel.</p>

<h2><strong>Fatal crash of Wagner Chief’s jet spurs speculation</strong></h2>

<p>Yevgeny Prigozhin’s death is thought to have occurred in the crash of his Embraer jet, which went down northwest of Moscow.&nbsp;Prigozhin had previously resisted placing his mercenaries under direct state control, despite Putin's request.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greek-wildfires-are-worst-in-europe-in-decades-says-eu-backed-climate-service-629165">Greek wildfires are worst in Europe in years, says EU-backed climate service</a></p>

<p>Prigozhin's refusal to comply with this directive led to escalating tensions with the Russian government, particularly the defence ministry. He had undertaken actions that directly challenged the government's authority, including the recent armed rebellion.</p>

<h2><strong>Confirmation delays&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Russian officials have been slow in confirming Prigozhin's death, but his name was listed on the flight manifest published by Russian aviation authorities. Putin, as per Peskov, was awaiting the results of a comprehensive investigation into the crash before making any official statement. Prigozhin's use of body doubles, multiple passports, and disguises had previously led to false reports of his death.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | PM Modi, Xi Jinping discuss border issues in Johannesburg</strong></p>

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<p>Putin said the Wagner chief made "some serious mistakes in his life". Despite differences, Putin also acknowledged Prigozhin's contributions to the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UK Ministry of Defence noted that definitive proof of Prigozhin's presence on the ill-fated flight is lacking due to his extensive security measures. However, there is a high likelihood of his demise, they added.&nbsp;</p>

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The Kremlin has rejected allegations of its involvement in the killing of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin. This comes as US officials have suggested that Russian President Vladimir Putin might have ordered Prigozhin's killing and it could have been an intentional plane explosion.

The Kremlin has rejected allegations of its involvement in the killing of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin. This comes as US officials have suggested that Russian President Vladimir Putin might have ordered Prigozhin's killing and it could have been an intentional plane explosion. However, in a new statement, the Kremlin has dismissed these claims terming it an "absolute lie". Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated, “There is a lot of speculation around this disaster, around the tragic death of the passengers on the plane, including Yevgeny Prigozhin. Of course, in the west all these speculations are presented from a certain angle. This is all an absolute lie.” Also Read | With Prigozhin dead, Wagner group's bloodied past, tumultuous present & uncertain future The circumstances of Prigozhin's death, in a plane crash or due to an explosion, are under debate. Russian President Vladimir Putin also issued a decree requiring allegiance oaths from Wagner and other private military company personnel. Fatal crash of Wagner Chief’s jet spurs speculation Yevgeny Prigozhin’s death is thought to have occurred in the crash of his Embraer jet, which went down northwest of Moscow. Prigozhin had previously resisted placing his mercenaries under direct state control, despite Putin's request. Also Read | Greek wildfires are worst in Europe in years, says EU-backed climate service Prigozhin's refusal to comply with this directive led to escalating tensions with the Russian government, particularly the defence ministry. He had undertaken actions that directly challenged the government's authority, including the recent armed rebellion. Confirmation delays Russian officials have been slow in confirming Prigozhin's death, but his name was listed on the flight manifest published by Russian aviation authorities. Putin, as per Peskov, was awaiting the results of a comprehensive investigation into the crash before making any official statement. Prigozhin's use of body doubles, multiple passports, and disguises had previously led to false reports of his death. Watch | PM Modi, Xi Jinping discuss border issues in Johannesburg × Putin said the Wagner chief made "some serious mistakes in his life". Despite differences, Putin also acknowledged Prigozhin's contributions to the war in Ukraine. The UK Ministry of Defence noted that definitive proof of Prigozhin's presence on the ill-fated flight is lacking due to his extensive security measures. However, there is a high likelihood of his demise, they added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Absolute lie': Kremlin rejects accusations of killing Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin

Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the upcoming G20 Summit in India. Putin won’t be able to attend the event in-person due to the ongoing special military operation in Ukraine. The information was released by Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. The last time the Russian president attended the G20 summit in-person was in 2019 in Osaka, Japan.

Vladimir Putin skips G20 summit for second consecutive year

The death of Prigozhin leaves Putin stronger in the short term, removing a powerful figure that launched a mutiny against top brass and threatened to make him look weak. However, it would also deprive Putin of a forceful and astute player who had proved his utility to the Kremlin. Prigozhin sent his fighters into some of the bloodiest battles of the Ukraine war and advanced Russian interests across Africa, which are now likely to be re-organised. To understand this better watch this interview with a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations Charles Kupchan.

Prigozhin plane crash shrouded in mystery

The death of Prigozhin leaves Putin stronger in the short term, removing a powerful figure that launched a mutiny against top brass and threatened to make him look weak. However, it would also deprive Putin of a forceful and astute player who had proved his utility to the Kremlin. Prigozhin sent his fighters into some of the bloodiest battles of the Ukraine war and advanced Russian interests across Africa, which are now likely to be re-organised.

Prigozhin Plane Crash: What happened to Putin's other rivals

<p>"For Christ's sake, guys, take me and finish me already," said Yevgeny Prigozhin in an interview as his stand-off with Russian military leadership and President Vladimir Putin escalated in the spring this year.</p>

<p>"What will be, will be," he added, as per an interview excerpt making the rounds. According to preliminary US government assessments, what happened was an assassination plot that took out the thorn in Putin's side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reports that as per US officials, while it looks like an assassination angle was behind Prigozhin's death, contrary to earlier speculation, the Wagner chief's aircraft doesn't appear to have been shot down by a surface-to-air missile.</p>

<h2><strong>Who, or what, killed Yevgeny Prigozhin?</strong></h2>

<p>As per WSJ, preliminary US government assessments, which are incomplete, suggest that sabotage or a bomb that exploded on the aircraft was behind the crash.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prigozhins-death-sparks-global-intrigue-as-putins-unforgiving-side-resurfaces-in-old-video-watch-628781">Prigozhin's death sparks buzz of intrigue as Putin's unforgiving side resurfaces in old video. WATCH</a></strong></p>

<p>Previously, social media channels close to the mercenary chief claimed that the aircraft carrying Prigozhin was downed by a Russian military anti-aircraft missile.</p>

<p>The Kremlin is yet to offer an explanation for the aircraft crash that happened northwest of Moscow but said that it was conducting an investigation. Russia’s Investigative Committee has reportedly launched a criminal probe into alleged violations of air safety rules. However, official information on the crash or its causes remains scant.</p>

<p>As per LBC, a UK-based publication, relatives of 39-year-old Kristina Raspopova, a flight attendant on board the aircraft who also died, have revealed that the flight was delayed due to "maintenance or some urgent repairs".</p>

<p>Talking to Sky News, former British intelligence officer Christopher Steele said that in an "ironic" twist, there are suggestions that a bomb in a wine crate may be behind the explosion and the subsequent crash.</p>

<p>"That's a kind of ironic end for Putin's former caterer," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>What happens now?</strong></h2>

<p>As per the WSJ report, as with previous deaths of Putin rivals, the Russian government is likely going to try to create confusion over who killed Prigozhin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Putin condoles Wagner Chief's Yevgeny Prigozhin death</strong></p>

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<p>Russian state-run media has already begun floating stories that blame Ukraine — a likely scapegoat, or some as of now unnamed rival of the Wagner chief.</p>

<p>However, the Wagner chief was often considered Putin's protégé, and while the Kremlin has previously eliminated rivals, Prigozhin's death marks the first high-ranking loyalist whom Putin is believed to have had killed over 'wrongdoings'.</p>

<p>Talking to the publication, Eric Green, former Russia adviser to President Biden’s National Security Council says, in the Kremlin, "there is likely sensitivity to how the Wagner fighters and their sympathisers will take the news" of Prigozhin’s death.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prigozhin-death-news-this-is-what-happened-to-other-putin-foes-628714">Prigozhin death news: This is what happened to other Putin foes in the past</a></strong></p>

<p>Due to Prigozhin's polarising yet popular image, uncertainty would help the Kremlin claim the report. Yet, as per the report, those on the inside were "clear-eyed about who was behind his murder".</p>

<p>Green says over time, the Kremlin may be more definitive about who killed Prigozhin. He noted that in the poisoning of other rivals like Alexei Navalny and ex-spies Sergei Skripal and Alexander Litvinenko "the Kremlin initially cultivated ambiguity, but in subsequent months dropped unmistakable hints as to its authorship."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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"For Christ's sake, guys, take me and finish me already," said Yevgeny Prigozhin in an interview as his stand-off with Russian military leadership and President Vladimir Putin escalated in the spring this year.

"For Christ's sake, guys, take me and finish me already," said Yevgeny Prigozhin in an interview as his stand-off with Russian military leadership and President Vladimir Putin escalated in the spring this year. "What will be, will be," he added, as per an interview excerpt making the rounds. According to preliminary US government assessments, what happened was an assassination plot that took out the thorn in Putin's side. The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reports that as per US officials, while it looks like an assassination angle was behind Prigozhin's death, contrary to earlier speculation, the Wagner chief's aircraft doesn't appear to have been shot down by a surface-to-air missile. Who, or what, killed Yevgeny Prigozhin? As per WSJ, preliminary US government assessments, which are incomplete, suggest that sabotage or a bomb that exploded on the aircraft was behind the crash. Also read | Prigozhin's death sparks buzz of intrigue as Putin's unforgiving side resurfaces in old video. WATCH Previously, social media channels close to the mercenary chief claimed that the aircraft carrying Prigozhin was downed by a Russian military anti-aircraft missile. The Kremlin is yet to offer an explanation for the aircraft crash that happened northwest of Moscow but said that it was conducting an investigation. Russia’s Investigative Committee has reportedly launched a criminal probe into alleged violations of air safety rules. However, official information on the crash or its causes remains scant. As per LBC, a UK-based publication, relatives of 39-year-old Kristina Raspopova, a flight attendant on board the aircraft who also died, have revealed that the flight was delayed due to "maintenance or some urgent repairs". Talking to Sky News, former British intelligence officer Christopher Steele said that in an "ironic" twist, there are suggestions that a bomb in a wine crate may be behind the explosion and the subsequent crash. "That's a kind of ironic end for Putin's former caterer," he added. What happens now? As per the WSJ report, as with previous deaths of Putin rivals, the Russian government is likely going to try to create confusion over who killed Prigozhin. Watch | Putin condoles Wagner Chief's Yevgeny Prigozhin death Russian state-run media has already begun floating stories that blame Ukraine — a likely scapegoat, or some as of now unnamed rival of the Wagner chief. However, the Wagner chief was often considered Putin's protégé, and while the Kremlin has previously eliminated rivals, Prigozhin's death marks the first high-ranking loyalist whom Putin is believed to have had killed over 'wrongdoings'. Talking to the publication, Eric Green, former Russia adviser to President Biden’s National Security Council says, in the Kremlin, "there is likely sensitivity to how the Wagner fighters and their sympathisers will take the news" of Prigozhin’s death. Also read | Prigozhin death news: This is what happened to other Putin foes in the past Due to Prigozhin's polarising yet popular image, uncertainty would help the Kremlin claim the report. Yet, as per the report, those on the inside were "clear-eyed about who was behind his murder". Green says over time, the Kremlin may be more definitive about who killed Prigozhin. He noted that in the poisoning of other rivals like Alexei Navalny and ex-spies Sergei Skripal and Alexander Litvinenko "the Kremlin initially cultivated ambiguity, but in subsequent months dropped unmistakable hints as to its authorship." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bomb in a wine crate aboard Prigozhin's plane led to the crash, reports suggest

In a significant development, the BRICS group, comprised of five nations dedicated to advocating for the "Global South," has taken a monumental step. With the admission of six new members, this coalition of emerging global powers is set to more than double in size. This strategic move not only strengthens BRICS but also positions it as a formidable geopolitical contender alongside the G7. While some of the new member additions align with India's lobbying efforts, others have invoked caution. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Iran, UAE Among 6 Nations To Join BRICS | What Bloc Expansion Means For India

The Wagner Chief is no more. Russian President Vladimir Putin has confirmed his death, calling him a 'talented businessman' who might have made some mistakes. What led to his death? Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin dies in plane crash

India’s G20 presidency this year presents an exceptional opportunity for the country to spearhead a collective approach to tackle multiple, complex, and interconnected challenges while placing, front and centre, the aspirations and needs of the developing world but what is India's contribution to G20? What changes can India bring to the world order as part of the G20 presidency?

India's G20 summit: Russian president to skip G20 summit in India

Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin was listed in the Russian plane crash, with no survivor. Pergozhin who previously operated in the shadows, came in the spotlight during Russia-Ukraine War that started in 2022.

Prigozhin plane crash shrouded in mystery; What happened to Putin's other rivals | World News | WION

It has been around 18 hours since a plane crashed near Moscow that listed Yevgeny Prigozhin, the chief of Russia's Wagner group, as one of the passengers. Reportedly, all the ten people on board have been killed. The Kremlin has not given out any official confirmation and the mystery seems to be only deepening.

Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin: Dead or alive?

<p>A plane, the passenger list of which included Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, crashed in Russia's Tver region near Moscow. At the time of publishing of this story, the Kremlin had not confirmed Prigozhin's death. The Wagner boss, once part of the inner circle of Russian President Vladimir Putin, angered him because of his mutiny just two months ago. For a brief period in those 24 hours, it seemed as if Russia was on the brink of a civil war when it had its hands tied in the Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Though Prigozhin called off his mercenaries, he was widely seen to be a 'dead man walking' as various experts and media outlets predicted that he would be assassinated in the near future.</p>

<p>The fears are not unfounded.</p>

<p>The lives of many of Putin's critics and opponents have ended in mysterious ways. It did not matter whether they were inside Russia or outside. The mystery surrounding these deaths (or at least apparent attempts to kill) has reinforced the perception that those who tenaciously oppose Putin are often forced to forego ideas of living long lives happily spent with family.</p>

<p>Let's take a look at such mysterious deaths and attempts to kill.</p>

<h2><strong>Alexander Litvinenko</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Litvinenko" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="71eee916-44c0-4904-87ba-fd280bdd7aaf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_PAR2004091412384.jpg" /></p>

<p>Alexander Litvinenko, a former KGB agent, was an outspoken critic of Putin. He died at the age of 43 in 2006 in London after drinking tea laced with Polonium-210. Polonium is a rare and potent radioactive element, a small amount of which can be deadly. A British inquiry in 2016 said that Putin probably approved the killing.</p>

<p>The Kremlin denied any involvement in Litvinenko's killing.</p>

<p><strong>Alexei Navalny</strong></p>

<p><img alt="Navalny" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a039657a-a664-46e0-a6eb-d4c15c9a8b90" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_DV1094107.jpg" /></p>

<p>The most prominent face of political opposition in Russia was poisoned with Novichok, a Soviet-era nerve agent. He was poisoned in Siberia. He was flown to Germany in August 2020. Navalny survived but this was widely perceived to be an attempt to assassinate him.</p>

<p>Russia denied any involvement.</p>

<p><strong>Alexander Perepilichny</strong></p>

<p><strong><img alt="Alexander" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="df885191-3c74-449c-a2f7-7e2c7493929a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Alexander.JPG" /></strong></p>

<p>Alexander Perepilichny (44), a Russian whistleblower, was found dead outside his home in 2012. He was out jogging. He had helped a Swiss investigation into money laundering in Russia. He left Russia and went to Britain in 2009.</p>

<p>British police ruled out foul play but there were suspicions that his death was an assassination.</p>

<p>Russia denied any involvement.</p>

<h2><strong>Sergei Skripal</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Skripal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4ae56ec4-5830-4f69-af64-612259439e8e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_12128A_0.jpg" /></p>

<p>Sergei Skripal, a former Russian double agent who worked for British intelligence, was found unconscious alongwith his daughter in 2018 on a bench in Salisbury, UK.</p>

<p>British authorities said that they were poisoned with Novichok. Both of them survived.</p>

<p>Russia denied any role in the poisoning.</p>

<p><strong>Anna Politkovskaya</strong></p>

<p><img alt="Anna" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="93113ce0-264c-48df-b2a9-2428c9e7228c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_APW2002102579022.jpg" /></p>

<p>She was a journalist who criticised Putin and made news reports on human rights abuses.</p>

<p>She was shot dead outside her Moscow flat in 2006. The killing took place on Putin's birthday.</p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>

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A plane, the passenger list of which included Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, crashed in Russia's Tver region near Moscow. At the time of publishing of this story, the Kremlin had not confirmed Prigozhin's death.

A plane, the passenger list of which included Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, crashed in Russia's Tver region near Moscow. At the time of publishing of this story, the Kremlin had not confirmed Prigozhin's death. The Wagner boss, once part of the inner circle of Russian President Vladimir Putin, angered him because of his mutiny just two months ago. For a brief period in those 24 hours, it seemed as if Russia was on the brink of a civil war when it had its hands tied in the Ukraine war. Though Prigozhin called off his mercenaries, he was widely seen to be a 'dead man walking' as various experts and media outlets predicted that he would be assassinated in the near future. The fears are not unfounded. The lives of many of Putin's critics and opponents have ended in mysterious ways. It did not matter whether they were inside Russia or outside. The mystery surrounding these deaths (or at least apparent attempts to kill) has reinforced the perception that those who tenaciously oppose Putin are often forced to forego ideas of living long lives happily spent with family. Let's take a look at such mysterious deaths and attempts to kill. Alexander Litvinenko Alexander Litvinenko, a former KGB agent, was an outspoken critic of Putin. He died at the age of 43 in 2006 in London after drinking tea laced with Polonium-210. Polonium is a rare and potent radioactive element, a small amount of which can be deadly. A British inquiry in 2016 said that Putin probably approved the killing. The Kremlin denied any involvement in Litvinenko's killing. Alexei Navalny The most prominent face of political opposition in Russia was poisoned with Novichok, a Soviet-era nerve agent. He was poisoned in Siberia. He was flown to Germany in August 2020. Navalny survived but this was widely perceived to be an attempt to assassinate him. Russia denied any involvement. Alexander Perepilichny Alexander Perepilichny (44), a Russian whistleblower, was found dead outside his home in 2012. He was out jogging. He had helped a Swiss investigation into money laundering in Russia. He left Russia and went to Britain in 2009. British police ruled out foul play but there were suspicions that his death was an assassination. Russia denied any involvement. Sergei Skripal Sergei Skripal, a former Russian double agent who worked for British intelligence, was found unconscious alongwith his daughter in 2018 on a bench in Salisbury, UK. British authorities said that they were poisoned with Novichok. Both of them survived. Russia denied any role in the poisoning. Anna Politkovskaya She was a journalist who criticised Putin and made news reports on human rights abuses. She was shot dead outside her Moscow flat in 2006. The killing took place on Putin's birthday. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Prigozhin death news: This is what happened to other Putin foes in the past

Today is the third and final day of the BRICS Summit which is underway in Johannesburg, South Africa. On the second day of the summit, the manner and the nature of expansion of the grouping topped the agenda. Watch WION in a conversation with the head of SAIIA, Steven Gruzd.

BRICS 2023 | Putin: We unanimously stand for shaping a multipolar world order

White House is busy preparing for the upcoming G20 summit which is scheduled for next month in New Delhi. Washington says US President Joe Biden is discussing a wide range of global issues ranging from Putin's invasion of Ukraine to reforms in the IMF and World Bank.

US President Joe Biden to push for reforms in World Bank, IMF; says 'Not against China' | WION

Russia has appointed a new acting head of its Aerospace forces after sacking a familiar name General Sergei Surovikin. Surovikin made headlines at the time of the Wagner Mutiny in June when reports emerged that he knew about the Revolt beforehand since then, he's been out of sight.

Reports: Russia sacks Sergei Surovikin as Aerospace Forces Chief

Russian forces repelled an attempt by Ukrainian "saboteurs" to break into the western border region of Bryansk, the region's local governor said Tuesday.

Russia claims to repel Ukrainian drone attacks

Russia has again been forced to shut down its air space over the three biggest airports in Moscow, where arrivals and departures were suspended in the early hours of this morning after a swarm of Ukrainian drones reportedly hit buildings in the capital region, officials said.

Ukraine drone strike reportedly destroys Russian flagship supersonic bomber

India Russia China Brazil and South Africa have formed one of the world's most important economic blocks the BRICS. Heads of state and government will attend the Summit in South Africa's Johannesburg as they seek to widen their influence and push for a shift in global geopolitics. To know more watch what the Greek Ambassador to India Dimitrios Ioannou has to say.

BRICS Summit 2023: Beijing is pushing BRICS to become a full-scale rival to G7

India Russia China Brazil and South Africa have formed one of the world's most important economic blocks the BRICS. Heads of state and government will attend the Summit in South Africa's Johannesburg as they seek to widen their influence and push for a shift in global geopolitics.

BRICS Summit 2023: At least 40 nations have shown interest in becoming BRICS members

BRICS heads of state arrive for Photo Op at summit venue. South Africa's Ramaphosa, Brazil's Lula, India's Modi and China's Jinping will attend summit in person. Russian President Vladimir Putin will address the summit virtually, while his foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, attends it in his stead.

BRICS Summit: Founded in 2009, the creation of BRICS was initiated by Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin's no-show at BRICS Summit

The BRICS Summit 2023 will take place in Johannesburg next week. The conference will be attended by several other foreign leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Putin will virtually be present at the conference.

At least 23 African nations have submitted application to join BRICS

All eyes this week are on Johannesburg. As BRICS Summit is finally kicking off. Leaders are all set to visit the host nation. But what this year's BRICS Summit holds for India?

What's at stake for India at the BRICS Summit in South Africa?

At least seven people died including a six-year-old girl and nearly 120 others injured after a Russian missile strike hit a central square in the northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv, Ukrainian officials said.

Seven killed, 120 wounded in Russian missile strike on Ukraine's Chernihiv

The United States has approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine from Denmark and the Netherlands to defend against Russian invaders as soon as pilot training is completed, a U.S. official said on Thursday.

Explained: Struggles of Ukrainian Air Force | Live Discussion

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