Following prior rumours that he would be traveling to China in October, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Friday that he anticipated meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping soon.

Russian President Vladimir Putin could visit China in October

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<p>A post on a Russian channel on Telegram has ignited concerns about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health. According to a report by the Express on Monday (August 28), the post by "Z-blogger" Pozdnyakov read, "God, don't you leave us. Pray to God you are alive and healthy." The post sparked discussion across social media platforms about Putin's health.</p>

<p><strong><em>WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of this Telegram post. So far, Russian authorities have not commented on this matter.</em></strong></p>

<h2><strong>What is going on?: Ukraine reacts to post on Putin's health</strong></h2>

<p>Anton Gerashchenko, the adviser to Ukraine's minister of internal affairs, shared the Telegram post on X (formerly known as Twitter), and said, "What is going on?" Gerashchenko's post garnered several reactions on the microblogging website.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An interesting post on the Telegram channel of "Z-blogger" Pozdnyakov:<br />
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"God, don't you leave us 🙏🙏🙏<br />
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Pray to God you are alive and healthy 🙏"<br />
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What is going on? <a href="https://t.co/w1mlbuQyfx">pic.twitter.com/w1mlbuQyfx</a></p>
— Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gerashchenko_en/status/1696071567292117414?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Nothing. More propaganda. Just a way to manipulate people's feelings. I know exactly where he's going with this. What country has a leader that prays to god on social media unless they're hoping to use it to get people to keep worrying about what he might do? We all know better," X user Roadrunner posted on Tuesday.</p>

<p>"Probably nothing, but if he's sick and his time is nearing the end, then it actually makes perfect sense to get rid of Prigozjin. He would most certainly try to take over if this is the case," another X user named RAVEN posted.&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>Russian missile hits private enterprise in central Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, as the war in Ukraine continues, Russian forces struck a private enterprise with a long-range cruise missile in Ukraine's Vinnytsia, Kyiv said on Friday. "Unfortunately, there are victims - three civilians, they are being provided with all necessary assistance," Governor Serhiy Borzov wrote on Telegram, adding that unspecified property and cars had been damaged.<br />
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A post on a Russian channel on Telegram has ignited concerns about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health. According to a report by the Express on Monday (August 28), the post by "Z-blogger" Pozdnyakov read, "God, don't you leave us.

A post on a Russian channel on Telegram has ignited concerns about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health. According to a report by the Express on Monday (August 28), the post by "Z-blogger" Pozdnyakov read, "God, don't you leave us. Pray to God you are alive and healthy." The post sparked discussion across social media platforms about Putin's health. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of this Telegram post. So far, Russian authorities have not commented on this matter. What is going on?: Ukraine reacts to post on Putin's health Anton Gerashchenko, the adviser to Ukraine's minister of internal affairs, shared the Telegram post on X (formerly known as Twitter), and said, "What is going on?" Gerashchenko's post garnered several reactions on the microblogging website. An interesting post on the Telegram channel of "Z-blogger" Pozdnyakov: "God, don't you leave us 🙏🙏🙏 Pray to God you are alive and healthy 🙏" What is going on? pic.twitter.com/w1mlbuQyfx — Anton Gerashchenko (@Gerashchenko_en) August 28, 2023 × "Nothing. More propaganda. Just a way to manipulate people's feelings. I know exactly where he's going with this. What country has a leader that prays to god on social media unless they're hoping to use it to get people to keep worrying about what he might do? We all know better," X user Roadrunner posted on Tuesday. "Probably nothing, but if he's sick and his time is nearing the end, then it actually makes perfect sense to get rid of Prigozjin. He would most certainly try to take over if this is the case," another X user named RAVEN posted. Russian missile hits private enterprise in central Ukraine Meanwhile, as the war in Ukraine continues, Russian forces struck a private enterprise with a long-range cruise missile in Ukraine's Vinnytsia, Kyiv said on Friday. "Unfortunately, there are victims - three civilians, they are being provided with all necessary assistance," Governor Serhiy Borzov wrote on Telegram, adding that unspecified property and cars had been damaged. 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.

Telegram post ignites concerns about Russian President Vladimir Putin's health. Ukraine reacts

The Kremlin announced on Wednesday that authorities were looking into all scenarios, including deliberate murder, surrounding the death of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of Wagner, in a plane crash last week.

Prigozhin Jet Crash: All scenarios of death being probed, including premeditated murder

Exactly two months after Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin led a mutiny against Putin's regime, his private jet crashed on the 23rd of August. The West has questioned Putin's involvement in the Wagner chief's death. But Kremlin has denied all the allegations. What's the truth? Why did Putin skip Prigozhin's funeral? From friends to Foes. Watch Wion Wideangle.

Yevgeny Prigozhin: Downfall. Disaster. Death

Russian President Vladimir Putin is not going to attend Wagner Chief Prigozhin's funeral. As the security in St Petersburg is being ramped up for the speculated funeral plans of the Wagner Chief. The Kremlin spokesperson said that the Russian authorities are also not the aware of the funeral arrangements.

Russia: Private funeral held for late Wagner Chief Prigozhin

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit China for the Belt and Road Forum in October. The visit would be Putin's first since his arrest warrant was issued against the Russian President for alleged war crimes which the Kremlin has vehemently denied.

Putin to skip G20 in India, visit China for Belt and Road forum

Russian President Vladimir Putin is likely to visit China for the Belt and Road initiative Forum in October. This will be his first international trip since the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant.

Putin likely to visit China in October to attend BRI forum | World News | WION

Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin was recently confirmed dead. He died in a plane crash that happened last week. Now the question arises, Who is going to take over Wagner's Africa operations after the incident? Watch this video to find out.

Who is going to take over Wagner's Africa operations after Prigozhin's death?

There's already a lot of Buzz around the G20 where Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the G20 Summit in New Delhi due to be held on the 9th and the 10th of September. Previously he did not attend the two-day BRICS Summit in Johannesburg either and now, President Putin informed India's prime minister Narendra Modi that Moscow will be represented by foreign minister Sergey Lavrov.

Russia's President to not attend September G20 Summit in India

The Kremlin, which strongly denies the ICC allegations, has said Putin would also not attend the G20 gathering in India. Putin told Modi Russia would be represented by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, according to a statement from the Indian government.

Russia's Putin to not visit India for G20 summit next month

The late Wagner chief Prigozhin has now passed away in Russian eyes as a hero. Nearly 24 hours have passed since the Wagner Chief's demise was confirmed by Russia's investigation agency.

Explained: What does Prigozhin's death mean for Putin?

Russia seems unbearable to hear the dissident voices. There is an extensive assassination menu in Putin's Russia. From polonium-laced tea to straightforward assassinations by a bullet.

A look at Russia's ruthless methods to silence Putin’s rivals

Days after Yevgeny Prigozhin, the commander of the Wagner mercenary group, and some of his lieutenants were rumored to have perished in an aircraft crash, President Vladimir Putin ordered the group's warriors to swear loyalty to the Russian state.

Putin orders Wagner fighters to sign oath of allegiance to Russia

Russia said Saturday that it shot down two drones over its Belgorod region and one headed for Moscow, as it reported Ukrainian shelling wounded six people in a border town.

Russia says drones downed as Ukrainian shelling wounds six

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the chief of Russia's Wagner mercenary group, has died in a mysterious plane crash. Prigozhin's death comes two months after he led a failed mutiny against the Kremlin. @VikramChandra tells you how anyone who crosses Putin either dies, or disappears, or is jailed.

Wagner chief Prigozhin is dead. Did Putin order the hit?

Whoever crosses Russian President Vladimir Putin either disappears, is imprisoned or ends up dead. Wagner chief Prigozhin was on borrowed time since his failed mutiny in Rostov-on-Don. On August 23, his plane mysteriously crashed, and the Wagner chief died.

Gravitas Plus: Did Russia's Wagner chief Prigozhin die because he crossed Putin?

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>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/putin-condoles-wagner-chiefs-yevgeny-prigozhin-death-world-news-wion-628897/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<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>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></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

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