<p>In a dramatic turn of events, Russian security services raided the residence of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner mercenary group. Previously believed to be in exile in Belarus, Prigozhin's St. Petersburg Palace was discovered to harbour an assortment of peculiar items, including wigs.</p>

<h2><strong>A bizarre collection</strong></h2>

<p>During the raid, authorities uncovered a stunning array of possessions in Prigozhin's palace.</p>

<p>The cache included firearms, ammunition, gold bars, and even a stuffed alligator, accompanied by an assortment of hairpieces.</p>

<p>Notably, large piles of cash, estimated at 600 million roubles (approximately $6.7 million), were found scattered throughout the property.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer:&nbsp;WION cannot independently&nbsp;verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.</strong></em></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Prigozhin's St Petersburg home has been raided by Russian security services.<br />
They found wigs a sledgehammer, weapons, and gold bars, the value of which has not been calculated.<br />
Images and video were released by pro-Kremlin newspaper Izvestia. <a href="https://t.co/ANRcuZrRU6">pic.twitter.com/ANRcuZrRU6</a></p>
— Sviat Hnizdovskyi (@s_hnizdovskyi) <a href="https://twitter.com/s_hnizdovskyi/status/1676841154980237313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Adding to the intrigue was a sledgehammer bearing the inscription, "for use in important negotiations," which Reuters reports was allegedly employed by Wagner in videos depicting the fatal bludgeoning of traitors.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/where-is-wagner-chief-prigozhin-lukashenko-says-not-in-belarus-612593">Where is Wagner chief Prigozhin? Lukashenko says not in Belarus</a></p>

<h2 class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><strong>Extravagant facilities and suspicious artefacts</strong></h2>

<p>The lavish palace also boasted of several extravagant facilities. Among them were a personal helicopter, a private prayer room, a spa, a sauna area, an indoor swimming pool, and a fully equipped medical treatment room.</p>

<p>Additionally, authorities uncovered multiple passports belonging to Prigozhin, each bearing a different name.</p>

<h2><strong>Conflicting reports and mutiny aftermath</strong></h2>

<p>Following Prigozhin's alleged exile to Belarus, conflicting reports emerged regarding his whereabouts.</p>

<p>The pro-Kremlin newspaper Izvestia shared images and an FSB video of the raid, and later Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that Prigozhin was not in Belarus, suggesting he may be in St. Petersburg or Moscow instead.</p>

<p>Prigozhin himself has not been seen since the attempted armed rebellion by the Wagner group against the Russian military in&nbsp;June.</p>

<p>Although treason charges against Prigozhin and his fighters have been dropped, Russian state TV maintains that an ongoing investigation into the mutiny is underway.</p>

<h2><strong>Shaking confidence in Putin's regime</strong></h2>

<p>The mutiny and subsequent events have significantly undermined confidence in President Vladimir Putin's authoritarian regime.</p>

<p>Prigozhin's enduring popularity among Russian citizens, despite Putin's condemnation of the rebellion, adds to the gravity of the situation.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Payback time for Wagner? 'Offices raided in Syria', strikes hit Libyan airbase used by mercenaries</strong></p>

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<p>The failed coup represents the most significant threat to Putin's premiership since he assumed power over two decades ago. As the investigation continues, the nation watches with bated breath, questioning the stability of the Russian political landscape.</p>

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In a dramatic turn of events, Russian security services raided the residence of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner mercenary group. Previously believed to be in exile in Belarus, Prigozhin's St.

In a dramatic turn of events, Russian security services raided the residence of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner mercenary group. Previously believed to be in exile in Belarus, Prigozhin's St. Petersburg Palace was discovered to harbour an assortment of peculiar items, including wigs. A bizarre collection During the raid, authorities uncovered a stunning array of possessions in Prigozhin's palace. The cache included firearms, ammunition, gold bars, and even a stuffed alligator, accompanied by an assortment of hairpieces. Notably, large piles of cash, estimated at 600 million roubles (approximately $6.7 million), were found scattered throughout the property. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Prigozhin's St Petersburg home has been raided by Russian security services. They found wigs a sledgehammer, weapons, and gold bars, the value of which has not been calculated. Images and video were released by pro-Kremlin newspaper Izvestia. pic.twitter.com/ANRcuZrRU6 — Sviat Hnizdovskyi (@s_hnizdovskyi) July 6, 2023 × Adding to the intrigue was a sledgehammer bearing the inscription, "for use in important negotiations," which Reuters reports was allegedly employed by Wagner in videos depicting the fatal bludgeoning of traitors. Also read | Where is Wagner chief Prigozhin? Lukashenko says not in Belarus Extravagant facilities and suspicious artefacts The lavish palace also boasted of several extravagant facilities. Among them were a personal helicopter, a private prayer room, a spa, a sauna area, an indoor swimming pool, and a fully equipped medical treatment room. Additionally, authorities uncovered multiple passports belonging to Prigozhin, each bearing a different name. Conflicting reports and mutiny aftermath Following Prigozhin's alleged exile to Belarus, conflicting reports emerged regarding his whereabouts. The pro-Kremlin newspaper Izvestia shared images and an FSB video of the raid, and later Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that Prigozhin was not in Belarus, suggesting he may be in St. Petersburg or Moscow instead. Prigozhin himself has not been seen since the attempted armed rebellion by the Wagner group against the Russian military in June. Although treason charges against Prigozhin and his fighters have been dropped, Russian state TV maintains that an ongoing investigation into the mutiny is underway. Shaking confidence in Putin's regime The mutiny and subsequent events have significantly undermined confidence in President Vladimir Putin's authoritarian regime. Prigozhin's enduring popularity among Russian citizens, despite Putin's condemnation of the rebellion, adds to the gravity of the situation. Watch | Payback time for Wagner? 'Offices raided in Syria', strikes hit Libyan airbase used by mercenaries The failed coup represents the most significant threat to Putin's premiership since he assumed power over two decades ago. As the investigation continues, the nation watches with bated breath, questioning the stability of the Russian political landscape. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Wagner chief's palatial home raided: Gold bars, wigs and guns found by Russian security services

<p>A report has emerged suggesting that Russian President Vladimir Putin fled Moscow during the mutiny orchestrated by Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner Group.</p>

<p>Mikhail Khodorkovsky, a former Russian oil executive in self-exile, disclosed that he closely monitored Putin's movements during the rebellion on June 24, as per a Newsweek report that quoted&nbsp;Mikhail Khodorkovsky.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Allegations of panic, hidden bunkers surround Putin's absence</strong></h2>

<p>According to Khodorkovsky, Putin boarded a plane and departed Moscow, likely seeking refuge in his Valdai residence.</p>

<p>Khodorkovsky, who headed the energy company Yukos before serving a decade in prison on politically motivated charges, commented, "We were monitoring Putin at that moment. And it looks like indeed, he did leave Moscow and most likely went to Valdai to his residence."</p>

<p>He highlighted the departure of a plane exclusively used by Putin on June 24, which vanished from flight trackers in the vicinity of Valdai, as per undisclosed sources.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-chiefs-palatial-home-raided-wigs-guns-and-gold-bars-found-by-russian-security-services-612711">Wagner chief's palatial home raided: Wigs, guns and gold bars found by Russian security services</a></p>

<p>During the mutiny, Putin's absence did not go unnoticed, as numerous leaders and department heads reportedly left Moscow. Khodorkovsky initially believed that the opposition had a chance to succeed, given the movements of key figures. However, the rebellion led by Prigozhin quickly lost momentum.</p>

<p>Echoing Khodorkovsky's claims, Leonid Nevzlin, a Russian-Israeli businessman and Putin critic, tweeted on June 24 that Putin had taken shelter in the bunker of his Valdai residence.</p>

<p>Nevzlin further alleged that Putin's close associates also flocked to the location, suggesting the president was in a state of panic. Ukrainian intelligence sources shared similar information, stating that Putin had left Moscow and was transported to Valdai.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US drones 'harassed': Russian fighter jets drop parachute flares in front of MQ-9 UAVs over Syria</strong></p>

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<p>Journalist Boris Grozovski, in a post for the Wilson Centre&nbsp;think tank, noted that Putin fled Moscow as the mutiny unfolded, spending the subsequent 24 hours at his Valdai estate.</p>

<p>These revelations have sparked intense speculation and analysis regarding the events surrounding the mutiny led by Yevgeny Prigozhin. As more details emerge about the movements and actions of key individuals during this tumultuous period, the story continues to captivate and intrigue observers worldwide.</p>

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A report has emerged suggesting that Russian President Vladimir Putin fled Moscow during the mutiny orchestrated by Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner Group.

A report has emerged suggesting that Russian President Vladimir Putin fled Moscow during the mutiny orchestrated by Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner Group. Mikhail Khodorkovsky, a former Russian oil executive in self-exile, disclosed that he closely monitored Putin's movements during the rebellion on June 24, as per a Newsweek report that quoted Mikhail Khodorkovsky. Allegations of panic, hidden bunkers surround Putin's absence According to Khodorkovsky, Putin boarded a plane and departed Moscow, likely seeking refuge in his Valdai residence. Khodorkovsky, who headed the energy company Yukos before serving a decade in prison on politically motivated charges, commented, "We were monitoring Putin at that moment. And it looks like indeed, he did leave Moscow and most likely went to Valdai to his residence." He highlighted the departure of a plane exclusively used by Putin on June 24, which vanished from flight trackers in the vicinity of Valdai, as per undisclosed sources. Also read | Wagner chief's palatial home raided: Wigs, guns and gold bars found by Russian security services During the mutiny, Putin's absence did not go unnoticed, as numerous leaders and department heads reportedly left Moscow. Khodorkovsky initially believed that the opposition had a chance to succeed, given the movements of key figures. However, the rebellion led by Prigozhin quickly lost momentum. Echoing Khodorkovsky's claims, Leonid Nevzlin, a Russian-Israeli businessman and Putin critic, tweeted on June 24 that Putin had taken shelter in the bunker of his Valdai residence. Nevzlin further alleged that Putin's close associates also flocked to the location, suggesting the president was in a state of panic. Ukrainian intelligence sources shared similar information, stating that Putin had left Moscow and was transported to Valdai. WATCH | US drones 'harassed': Russian fighter jets drop parachute flares in front of MQ-9 UAVs over Syria Journalist Boris Grozovski, in a post for the Wilson Centre think tank, noted that Putin fled Moscow as the mutiny unfolded, spending the subsequent 24 hours at his Valdai estate. These revelations have sparked intense speculation and analysis regarding the events surrounding the mutiny led by Yevgeny Prigozhin. As more details emerge about the movements and actions of key individuals during this tumultuous period, the story continues to captivate and intrigue observers worldwide. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Putin's alleged escape: Report suggests Russian president 'fled Moscow' during Wagner's mutiny

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, who last month brokered a deal to end an armed mutiny in Russia, said on Thursday that Russian mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin was no longer in Belarus.

Belarus President Lukashenko says Wagner Chief Prigozhin is back in Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has claimed that Russia is plotting a potentially dangerous attack on Europe's largest nuclear power plant, which Russian forces have occupied for more than a year.

Ukraine and Russia accuse each other plotting attack on Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyhas again warned Russia may be planning to “simulate an attack” the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, claiming that Russian troops have placed “objects resembling explosives” on the roofs of buildings at the site.

Zelenskyy warns of Russian threat to 'attack' Ukraine nuclear power plant

In a basement in downtown Kyiv away from prying eyes late last month, crowds of engineers and innovators met senior military officials to brainstorm ways to better neutralise the cheap Russian suicide drones that still devastate Ukrainian cities.

How Ukraine is using tech to counter Russian 'suicide' drone threat

India is hosting the virtual Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization today. The summit of the SCO Council of heads of state will be chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Xi Jinping and Pakistan prime minister Shahbaz Sharif.

Putin, Xi and Sharif to attend SCO summit hosted by Indian PM Narendra Modi

The Shanghai Cooperation organisation is an intergovernmental organization founded in shanghai on 15 June 2001. Since its inception, the SCO has mainly focused on regional security issues and the fight against terrorism, separatism and extremism. The priorities of the grouping also include regional development. The SCO has been an observer in the united nations general assembly since 2005.

India hosts SCO meet; Putin's first summit since Wagner rebellion | Iran set to join grouping

Putin spoke at the SCO summit 2023 about geopolitical contradictions and the degradation of the international security system and the increase in the risks of a new global economic and financial crisis.

Putin slams western sanctions during SCO Summit

In his first appearance before a major International Forum since the Wagner Mutiny at home, Russian President Vladimir Putin came down heavily on Western sanctions on Moscow. The Russian President addressed a virtual Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. the meeting was hosted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Virtual Summit chaired by Indian PM Modi as Putin, Xi, Sharif attend virtually

Putin: Russia will resist 'sanctions and provocations'

A new war has begun; it is Russia Vs Wagner. Russian President Vladimir Putin has taken his offensive against Wagner international. Reports say arrests have been made in Syria.

Gravitas: Russia vs Wagner: The offensive goes international | The start of a new war

Mercenary Chief Evgeni Pregosian LED an armed Rebellion against the Russian military and walked free Russia's main domestic Security Agency the FSB dropped a criminal investigation into the Wagner Revolt with no charges against Frigosian or any other participants about a dozen Russian troops were killed in clashes during the aborted Mutiny and Putin vowed to punish Those Behind the Rebellion reports suggest Wagner is now battling a Russian clampdown.

Wagner fighters and offices targeted in Syria as Putin moves to seize control of Wagner empire

India is set to host the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit tomorrow. The meeting will be held virtually as a key highlight will be the participation of Iran which has become the newest member of the eight-member group. Also, Vladimir Putin is expected to address a multilateral summit for the first time since the Wagner Mutiny last month.

Putin to address SCO for the first time since armed rebellion

A mutiny that has shaken Putin's regime Days after Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, launched a rebellion against the Russian President, Kremlin is in damage control mode What lies ahead for Wagner group now in the war? Is Putin losing grip on his men? Watch WION WIDEANGLE- WAGNER'S ABORTED MUTINY WHAT'S NEXT?

Wagner's aborted mutiny, what's next?

Ever since Putin came into power, he has allowed little dissent at home But things changed when Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin went up right against the Kremlin. Watch how the uncontrollable feud between the warlord and Russia’s top defence leadership got exposed

Is Putin losing his grip on Russia?

Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia will be difficult and "very bloody", the US' highest-ranking military officer has said.

Ukraine, US: Counteroffensive creeps ahead, measured in blood

Ukraine counter-offensive will be long and bloody, says US Gen Mark Milley

Prime Minister Modi voiced his support for Putin's action to maintain Law and Order in the country's engagement through multilateral platforms that both countries are a part of like the Shanghai cooperation organization.

Indian PM Modi expresses support for Russia's response to Wagner mutiny

Is the Wagner group setting up a secret training base in Belarus? Satellite images show activities in a deserted military camp located 100km from Minsk. Reports say the Wagner group is still recruiting fighters. Is it planning a war from exile? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: Is Russia's Wagner group setting up a secret training base in Belarus?

Wagner Group is in dire straits. What once was the Russian military's backbone. Is today nowhere in sight. The aborted mutiny of Wagner group calls into question the fate of its extensive network. From military to commercial operations, this network was spread across Europe, the Middle East & Africa.

All about Wagner's global operations: War, oil and Gold

The 15th BRICS summit is going to be held in August in South Africa's Johannesburg which will include major emerging economies like Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa has been in the news for more than one reason. There has been speculation about additions of new members or changes in the venue. Even though the venue has been confirmed the biggest question lies whether Vladimir Putin who has just torched a mutiny back home will attend the summit?

BRICS summit to be held in Johannesburg: Will Vladimir Putin attend the 15th Summit?

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, voiced his support for the response by the Russian leadership to the Wagner mutiny in order to uphold law and order in the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In connection with the events of June 24, Narendra Modi expressed understanding and support for the decisive actions of the Russian leadership to protect law and order, ensure stability in the country and the security of its citizens," read a Kremlin statement translated in English.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While discussing the situation in Ukraine, PM reiterated his call for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the ongoing conflict. They reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-riots-600-people-arrested-200-cops-left-injured-as-violence-continues-on-third-night-610544">France riots: 600 people arrested, 200 cops left injured as violence continues on third night</a></p>

<p>The leaders highlighted the significance of consistent implementation of major joint projects across various sectors, expressing satisfaction over the notable increase in trade between the two countries in 2022 and the first quarter of the current year, the Kremlin said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Collaboration in multilateral forums</strong></h2>

<p>Special attention was given to the cooperation between India and Russia through multilateral platforms, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), where India currently holds the chairmanship, as well as the G20 and BRICS formats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/europe/uk-environment-minister-zac-goldsmith-resigns-accuses-rishi-sunak-of-neglecting-climate-change-610540">UK environment minister Zac Goldsmith resigns, accuses Rishi Sunak of neglecting Climate Change</a></p>

<p>Prime Minister Modi also provided an update on his recent visit to Washington and his international engagements.</p>

<h2><strong>Discussion on Ukraine conflict</strong></h2>

<p>The leaders addressed the situation concerning Ukraine, with President Putin evaluating the current state of affairs in the conflict zone and emphasising Kyiv's "categorical refusal" to take necessary political and diplomatic measures for conflict resolution.</p>

<h2><strong>Commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership</strong></h2>

<p>Kremlin said that the conversation was informative and constructive, with both leaders reaffirming their mutual commitment to enhancing the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between Russia and India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | French President spotted at singer Elton John's concert amid riots</strong></p>

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<p>They agreed on the necessity of further engagements and exchanges to deepen bilateral ties.</p>

<p>The conversation between the leaders comes days after&nbsp;the Russian mercenary group Wagner initiated a revolt amidst escalating tensions between the Russian Ministry of Defense and Wagner's leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin.</p>

<p>Prigozhin started the rebellion as a response to an alleged attack by the ministry on his forces.</p>

<p>On June 24, in a televised address, Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned Wagner mercenaries for their actions and called it "treason".</p>

<p>Prigozhin's forces successfully seized control of Russia's Rostov-on-Don and the headquarters of the Southern Military District before advancing towards Moscow in an armoured column.</p>

<p>Following the intervention of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko,&nbsp;Prigozhin agreed to retreat and his forces began withdrawing from Rostov-on-Don late on June 24.</p>

<p>The Russian Federal Security Service initially had opened a case for armed rebellion against the Wagner chief but later closed it on June 27 and dropped the charges.</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, voiced his support for the response by the Russian leadership to the Wagner mutiny in order to uphold law and order in the country.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, voiced his support for the response by the Russian leadership to the Wagner mutiny in order to uphold law and order in the country. "In connection with the events of June 24, Narendra Modi expressed understanding and support for the decisive actions of the Russian leadership to protect law and order, ensure stability in the country and the security of its citizens," read a Kremlin statement translated in English. While discussing the situation in Ukraine, PM reiterated his call for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the ongoing conflict. They reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation and exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest. Also Read | France riots: 600 people arrested, 200 cops left injured as violence continues on third night The leaders highlighted the significance of consistent implementation of major joint projects across various sectors, expressing satisfaction over the notable increase in trade between the two countries in 2022 and the first quarter of the current year, the Kremlin said. Collaboration in multilateral forums Special attention was given to the cooperation between India and Russia through multilateral platforms, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), where India currently holds the chairmanship, as well as the G20 and BRICS formats. Also Read | UK environment minister Zac Goldsmith resigns, accuses Rishi Sunak of neglecting Climate Change Prime Minister Modi also provided an update on his recent visit to Washington and his international engagements. Discussion on Ukraine conflict The leaders addressed the situation concerning Ukraine, with President Putin evaluating the current state of affairs in the conflict zone and emphasising Kyiv's "categorical refusal" to take necessary political and diplomatic measures for conflict resolution. Commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership Kremlin said that the conversation was informative and constructive, with both leaders reaffirming their mutual commitment to enhancing the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between Russia and India. Watch | French President spotted at singer Elton John's concert amid riots × They agreed on the necessity of further engagements and exchanges to deepen bilateral ties. The conversation between the leaders comes days after the Russian mercenary group Wagner initiated a revolt amidst escalating tensions between the Russian Ministry of Defense and Wagner's leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin. Prigozhin started the rebellion as a response to an alleged attack by the ministry on his forces. On June 24, in a televised address, Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned Wagner mercenaries for their actions and called it "treason". Prigozhin's forces successfully seized control of Russia's Rostov-on-Don and the headquarters of the Southern Military District before advancing towards Moscow in an armoured column. Following the intervention of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Prigozhin agreed to retreat and his forces began withdrawing from Rostov-on-Don late on June 24. The Russian Federal Security Service initially had opened a case for armed rebellion against the Wagner chief but later closed it on June 27 and dropped the charges. 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. ×

PM Modi holds talks with Putin, expresses support for Russia's response to Wagner mutiny

Russia's most senior generals have dropped out of public view following a failed mercenary mutiny aimed at toppling the top brass, amid a drive by President Vladimir Putin to reassert his authority. Armed forces chief of staff General Valery Gerasimov has not appeared in public or on state TV since the aborted mutiny on Saturday when mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin demanded Gerasimov be handed over. Nor has he been mentioned in a defence ministry press release since June 9.

Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov offers to help put down Wagner mutiny

Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov says his forces are ready to help put down Wagner mutiny

<p>Former United States president Donald Trump, who is also an admirer of Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday, said that Putin was "somewhat weakened" by the Wagner revolt and that now was the time for the US to mediate and try negotiating a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine to end the war.</p>

<p>"I want people to stop dying over this ridiculous war," Trump said in a conversation with news agency Reuters.</p>

<p>On being asked about the foreign policy, Trump said that China should be given a 48-hour deadline to get out of what sources familiar with the matter say is a Chinese spy capability on the island of Cuba 90 miles (145 km) off the U.S. coast.</p>

<p>Speaking about Ukraine, the former US president said that everything would be "subject to negotiation" if he were president, and added that Ukrainians have strongly waged the fight to defend their country and have "earned a lot of credit".</p>

<p>"I think they would be entitled to keep much of what they've earned and I think that Russia likewise would agree to that. You need the right mediator or negotiator, and we don't have that right now," he said.</p>

<p>He further said that the United States should now be making efforts to bring both the countries, Russia and Ukraine, together to force peace.</p>

<p>"I think the biggest thing that the U.S. should be doing right now is making peace — getting Russia and Ukraine together and making peace. You can do it," he added. "This is the time to do it, to get the two parties together to force peace."</p>

<p>During his tenure, Trump had become friends with his Russian counterpart, who now Biden says has "become a bit of pariah around the world" for invading Ukraine.</p>

<p>Trump then said that Putin has&nbsp;been 'weakened' by the mutiny by the mercenary group Wagner, which took place last weekend.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-chancellor-olaf-scholz-says-russian-president-putin-weakened-by-wagner-mutiny-609856">German Chancellor Olaf Scholz says Russian President Putin 'weakened' by Wagner mutiny</a></p>

<p>"You could say that he's (Putin) still there, he's still strong, but he certainly has been I would say somewhat weakened at least in the minds of a lot of people," he said.</p>

<p>If Putin were no longer in power, however, "you don't know what the alternative is. It could be better, but it could be far worse," Trump said.</p>

<p>Speaking on the war crime charges levied against Putin by the International Criminal Court last March, Trump said that the fate of the Russian President should be discussed when the war is over "because right now if you bring that topic up, you'll never make peace, you'll never make a settlement."</p>

<h2><strong>Olaf Scholz says Wagner mutiny 'weakened' Putin </strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner had "weakened" Russian President Vladimir Putin.</p>

<p>In his first extensive comments about the aborted rebellion, Scholz said it would "surely have long-term consequences in Russia".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I do believe that he (Putin) is weakened," Scholz told public broadcaster ARD.</p>

<p>"It shows that the autocratic structures, the power structures, have cracks and he in no way sits as firmly in the saddle as he always claims," the German leader said.</p>

<p>"But I don't want to take part in speculation about how long he'll stay in office, it could be a long time or short, we don't know."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Former United States president Donald Trump, who is also an admirer of Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday, said that Putin was "somewhat weakened" by the Wagner revolt and that now was the time for the US to mediate and try negotiating a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine to end the war.

Former United States president Donald Trump, who is also an admirer of Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday, said that Putin was "somewhat weakened" by the Wagner revolt and that now was the time for the US to mediate and try negotiating a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine to end the war. "I want people to stop dying over this ridiculous war," Trump said in a conversation with news agency Reuters. On being asked about the foreign policy, Trump said that China should be given a 48-hour deadline to get out of what sources familiar with the matter say is a Chinese spy capability on the island of Cuba 90 miles (145 km) off the U.S. coast. Speaking about Ukraine, the former US president said that everything would be "subject to negotiation" if he were president, and added that Ukrainians have strongly waged the fight to defend their country and have "earned a lot of credit". "I think they would be entitled to keep much of what they've earned and I think that Russia likewise would agree to that. You need the right mediator or negotiator, and we don't have that right now," he said. He further said that the United States should now be making efforts to bring both the countries, Russia and Ukraine, together to force peace. "I think the biggest thing that the U.S. should be doing right now is making peace — getting Russia and Ukraine together and making peace. You can do it," he added. "This is the time to do it, to get the two parties together to force peace." During his tenure, Trump had become friends with his Russian counterpart, who now Biden says has "become a bit of pariah around the world" for invading Ukraine. Trump then said that Putin has been 'weakened' by the mutiny by the mercenary group Wagner, which took place last weekend. Also read: German Chancellor Olaf Scholz says Russian President Putin 'weakened' by Wagner mutiny "You could say that he's (Putin) still there, he's still strong, but he certainly has been I would say somewhat weakened at least in the minds of a lot of people," he said. If Putin were no longer in power, however, "you don't know what the alternative is. It could be better, but it could be far worse," Trump said. Speaking on the war crime charges levied against Putin by the International Criminal Court last March, Trump said that the fate of the Russian President should be discussed when the war is over "because right now if you bring that topic up, you'll never make peace, you'll never make a settlement." Olaf Scholz says Wagner mutiny 'weakened' Putin Earlier, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner had "weakened" Russian President Vladimir Putin. In his first extensive comments about the aborted rebellion, Scholz said it would "surely have long-term consequences in Russia". "I do believe that he (Putin) is weakened," Scholz told public broadcaster ARD. "It shows that the autocratic structures, the power structures, have cracks and he in no way sits as firmly in the saddle as he always claims," the German leader said. "But I don't want to take part in speculation about how long he'll stay in office, it could be a long time or short, we don't know." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Donald Trump says Putin 'weakened' by Wagner mutiny, it's time to broker peace

It has been four days since the Wagner Chief you have Yevgeny Prigozhin aborted his Mutiny against Russia but new developments continue to emerge. New York Times reporters claimed that a senior Russian defense official had prior knowledge about Prigozhin's intentions now this has intensified speculations on the involvement of Russian officials in the subversion. This also could be the biggest blow to the authority of President Vladimir Putin. To discuss this further we are being joined by Volker Stanzel. He is a former German ambassador to China and Japan and a Senior distinguished fellow at SWP German Institute for International and Security Affairs.

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