The whereabouts of a top Russian military general have been unknown to the public since Saturday. Sparking speculation regarding his involvement in the recent mutiny by the mercenary group Wagner.

Where is Russia's general Sergei Surovikin?

Gen. Sergei Surovikin, the ruthless one-time leader of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, was last seen telling the Wagner Group mercenaries to stop their uprising in an uncomfortable appeal likened to “a hostage video.”

Russian general who knew about mutiny is missing: report

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Wednesday said the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner had "weakened" Russian President Vladimir Putin, but the ultimate consequences of the rebellion still remained unclear.

The revolt by the mercenary group that took place past weekend, has triggered speculations over Putin's grip on power as Moscow's war in Ukraine grinds on.&nbsp;

In his first extensive comments about the aborted rebellion, Scholz said it would "surely have long-term consequences in Russia".&nbsp;

"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."&nbsp;

Scholz then added that his country and the Western allies would be keeping a close watch on further developments on this.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-wished-to-wipe-out-wagner-chief-prigozhin-during-mutiny-claims-lukashenko-609677">Putin wished to ‘wipe out’ Wagner chief Prigozhin after mutiny, claims Lukashenko</a>

"Russia is a nuclear power, it is a very powerful country and that is why we have to watch very carefully when dangerous situations arise," he said.

<h2>Scholz reaffirms Berlin's support for Ukraine</h2>

Further reaffirming Berlin's support for Ukraine, Scholz highlighted that there could be no peace negotiations until Moscow withdrew its forces.

"Anything else would legitimise what's happened," he said. "And that is why it can't end up that the war is just frozen there where the line is between the various armies."

He said it was unclear whether the Wagner mutiny "would make it easier or harder" to end the war.

"That is why it is important for Ukraine to do its part to make it (a resolution) possible -- that is what it is trying to do with the current offensive."

Scholz said Western allies were "supporting Ukraine so it can defend itself" but stressed that "the goal of our support for Ukraine is not regime change in Russia".

On being asked about the potential risks posed by Wagner forces in Belarus, Scholz asserted that NATO would be closely monitoring the developments.

"Private armies are always threatening, even for the countries that maintain them -- Russia has now seen that," he told reporters.

Calling it a "situation that we are watching with great concern", Scholz said nevertheless that NATO was prepared to "defend every centimetre of its territory".

"At the same time, I am not currently expecting a change in the situation," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Wednesday said the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner had "weakened" Russian President Vladimir Putin, but the ultimate consequences of the rebellion still remained unclear.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Wednesday said the mutiny by mercenary group Wagner had "weakened" Russian President Vladimir Putin, but the ultimate consequences of the rebellion still remained unclear. The revolt by the mercenary group that took place past weekend, has triggered speculations over Putin's grip on power as Moscow's war in Ukraine grinds on. 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." Scholz then added that his country and the Western allies would be keeping a close watch on further developments on this. Also read: Putin wished to ‘wipe out’ Wagner chief Prigozhin after mutiny, claims Lukashenko "Russia is a nuclear power, it is a very powerful country and that is why we have to watch very carefully when dangerous situations arise," he said. Scholz reaffirms Berlin's support for Ukraine Further reaffirming Berlin's support for Ukraine, Scholz highlighted that there could be no peace negotiations until Moscow withdrew its forces. "Anything else would legitimise what's happened," he said. "And that is why it can't end up that the war is just frozen there where the line is between the various armies." He said it was unclear whether the Wagner mutiny "would make it easier or harder" to end the war. "That is why it is important for Ukraine to do its part to make it (a resolution) possible -- that is what it is trying to do with the current offensive." Scholz said Western allies were "supporting Ukraine so it can defend itself" but stressed that "the goal of our support for Ukraine is not regime change in Russia". On being asked about the potential risks posed by Wagner forces in Belarus, Scholz asserted that NATO would be closely monitoring the developments. "Private armies are always threatening, even for the countries that maintain them -- Russia has now seen that," he told reporters. Calling it a "situation that we are watching with great concern", Scholz said nevertheless that NATO was prepared to "defend every centimetre of its territory". "At the same time, I am not currently expecting a change in the situation," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz says Russian President Putin 'weakened' by Wagner mutiny

The Wagner Group mercenaries who seized the Russian city of Rostov-on-Don on Saturday in a failed mutiny included at least three convicted criminals, a Reuters review of facial recognition software, court records and social media showed.

Wagner mutineers included Russian convicts freed to fight in Ukraine?

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said that he did not doubt the support of Russian citizens during the uprising by the mercenary group Wagner.

"I did not doubt the reaction in Dagestan and in all of the country," he said as he met Sergei Melikov, the head of the Caucasus region, according to an extract of the meeting aired on Russian television.

Putin released this statement in his response to Melikov, who had remarked that "there was not a single person in Dagestan who did not support decisions made by the leaders of the Russian Federation" over the aborted rebellion.

<h2>Putin wished to ‘wipe out’ Wagner chief after mutiny</h2>

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that he had requested Russian President Vladimir Putin not to "wipe out" mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin amid the armed mutiny of Wagner group that pushed Russia to the brink of civil war.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-vladimir-putin-wanted-to-kill-wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-but-stopped-heres-how-609686">Explained | Putin wanted to kill Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, but stopped. Here's what happened</a>

Initially, Putin had promised to crush the mutiny which it compared to the wartime turmoil that had led to the revolution of 1917 followed by civil war. However, hours later the Wagner chief finalised a deal which allowed him along with some of his fighters to go to Belarus.

On Tuesday, Wagner chief flew to Belarus from Russia. Lukashenko, while talking about the conversation he had with Putin on Saturday, made use of the Russian criminal slang phrase used for killing someone which is similar to the English phrase to "wipe out".

"I also understood: a brutal decision had been made (and it was the undertone of Putin's address) to wipe out the mutineers," said Lukashenko in a meeting of his army officials as well as journalists on Tuesday, as reported by the Belarusian state media.

"I suggested to Putin not to rush. 'Come on,' I said, 'Let's talk with Prigozhin, with his commanders.' To which he told me: 'Listen, Sasha, it's useless. He doesn't even pick up the phone, he doesn’t want to talk to anyone'," he stated.&nbsp;

The same Russian verb was used by Putin in 1999 about Chechen militants, as he vowed to "wipe them out in the sh*thouse". The remarks made by Putin became a widely quoted emblem of the Russian leader's severe persona.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said that he did not doubt the support of Russian citizens during the uprising by the mercenary group Wagner. "I did not doubt the reaction in Dagestan and in all of the country," he said as he met Sergei Melikov, the head of the Caucasus region, according to an extract of the meeting aired on Russian television.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday said that he did not doubt the support of Russian citizens during the uprising by the mercenary group Wagner. "I did not doubt the reaction in Dagestan and in all of the country," he said as he met Sergei Melikov, the head of the Caucasus region, according to an extract of the meeting aired on Russian television. Putin released this statement in his response to Melikov, who had remarked that "there was not a single person in Dagestan who did not support decisions made by the leaders of the Russian Federation" over the aborted rebellion. Putin wished to ‘wipe out’ Wagner chief after mutiny Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claimed that he had requested Russian President Vladimir Putin not to "wipe out" mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin amid the armed mutiny of Wagner group that pushed Russia to the brink of civil war. Also read: Explained | Putin wanted to kill Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, but stopped. Here's what happened Initially, Putin had promised to crush the mutiny which it compared to the wartime turmoil that had led to the revolution of 1917 followed by civil war. However, hours later the Wagner chief finalised a deal which allowed him along with some of his fighters to go to Belarus. On Tuesday, Wagner chief flew to Belarus from Russia. Lukashenko, while talking about the conversation he had with Putin on Saturday, made use of the Russian criminal slang phrase used for killing someone which is similar to the English phrase to "wipe out". "I also understood: a brutal decision had been made (and it was the undertone of Putin's address) to wipe out the mutineers," said Lukashenko in a meeting of his army officials as well as journalists on Tuesday, as reported by the Belarusian state media. "I suggested to Putin not to rush. 'Come on,' I said, 'Let's talk with Prigozhin, with his commanders.' To which he told me: 'Listen, Sasha, it's useless. He doesn't even pick up the phone, he doesn’t want to talk to anyone'," he stated. The same Russian verb was used by Putin in 1999 about Chechen militants, as he vowed to "wipe them out in the sh*thouse". The remarks made by Putin became a widely quoted emblem of the Russian leader's severe persona. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

President Vladimir Putin says 'did not doubt' support of Russian citizens during mutiny

Putin addresses members of the FSB, Federal Protection Service, Interior Ministry troops who 'ensured order' during the mutiny.

Wagner mutiny: Putin shaken but mot stirred?

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- A Russian rocket strike on a restaurant in Kramatorsk, Ukraine killed three people and injured over 40. A popular Pizza restaurant was destroyed, trapping some people under the rubble. Rescue efforts were underway.

4 Dead, 42 injured in Russian missile attack in Kramatorsk

Eastern European NATO countries on Tuesday warned that Russian mercenary group, Wagner's move to Belarus would create greater regional instability. However, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the alliance is ready to defend itself against any threat.

"If Wagner deploys its serial killers in Belarus, all neighbouring countries face the even bigger danger of instability," Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said after a meeting in The Hague with Stoltenberg and government leaders from six other NATO allies.

"This is really serious and very concerning, and we have to make very strong decisions. It requires a very, very tough answer of NATO," Polish President Andrzej Duda added.

On Tuesday, mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin arrived in Belarus under an agreement negotiated by President Alexander Lukashenko that ended mutiny by the group in Russia on Saturday.

NATO's Stoltenberg said it was too early to say what this could mean for NATO allies, and stressed the increased defence of the alliance's eastern flank in recent years.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-plane-belonging-to-wagner-chief-reportedly-lands-in-belarus-609259">Russia-Ukraine war: Lukashenko says Wagner chief Prigozhin in Belarus</a>

"We have sent a clear message to Moscow and Minsk that NATO is there to protect every ally, every inch of NATO territory," Stoltenberg said.

"We have already increased our military presence in the eastern part of the alliance and we will make further decisions to further strengthen our collective defence with more high-readiness forces and more capabilities at the upcoming summit."

Stoltenberg said the mutiny had shown that Putin's "illegal war" against Ukraine had deepened divisions in Russia.

"At the same time we must not underestimate Russia. So it's even more important that we continue to provide Ukraine with our support."

<h2>Putin says Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus'</h2>

In a televised address to the nation on Monday, President Putin said that he would honour his promise to allow Wagner fighters to relocate to Belarus, if they wanted, or to sign a contract with the Defence Ministry or simply return to their families.

"I thank those soldiers and commanders of the Wagner Group who made the only right decision - they did not turn to fratricidal bloodshed, they stopped at the last line. Today you have the opportunity to continue serving Russia by entering into a contract with the Ministry of Defence or other law enforcement agencies or to return to your family and friends. Whoever wants to can go to Belarus. The promise I made will be fulfilled."

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Eastern European NATO countries on Tuesday warned that Russian mercenary group, Wagner's move to Belarus would create greater regional instability. However, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the alliance is ready to defend itself against any threat.

Eastern European NATO countries on Tuesday warned that Russian mercenary group, Wagner's move to Belarus would create greater regional instability. However, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that the alliance is ready to defend itself against any threat. "If Wagner deploys its serial killers in Belarus, all neighbouring countries face the even bigger danger of instability," Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said after a meeting in The Hague with Stoltenberg and government leaders from six other NATO allies. "This is really serious and very concerning, and we have to make very strong decisions. It requires a very, very tough answer of NATO," Polish President Andrzej Duda added. On Tuesday, mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin arrived in Belarus under an agreement negotiated by President Alexander Lukashenko that ended mutiny by the group in Russia on Saturday. NATO's Stoltenberg said it was too early to say what this could mean for NATO allies, and stressed the increased defence of the alliance's eastern flank in recent years. Also read: Russia-Ukraine war: Lukashenko says Wagner chief Prigozhin in Belarus "We have sent a clear message to Moscow and Minsk that NATO is there to protect every ally, every inch of NATO territory," Stoltenberg said. "We have already increased our military presence in the eastern part of the alliance and we will make further decisions to further strengthen our collective defence with more high-readiness forces and more capabilities at the upcoming summit." Stoltenberg said the mutiny had shown that Putin's "illegal war" against Ukraine had deepened divisions in Russia. "At the same time we must not underestimate Russia. So it's even more important that we continue to provide Ukraine with our support." Putin says Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus' In a televised address to the nation on Monday, President Putin said that he would honour his promise to allow Wagner fighters to relocate to Belarus, if they wanted, or to sign a contract with the Defence Ministry or simply return to their families. "I thank those soldiers and commanders of the Wagner Group who made the only right decision - they did not turn to fratricidal bloodshed, they stopped at the last line. Today you have the opportunity to continue serving Russia by entering into a contract with the Ministry of Defence or other law enforcement agencies or to return to your family and friends. Whoever wants to can go to Belarus. The promise I made will be fulfilled." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Eastern European NATO allies say Wagner's move to Belarus will create regional instability

A Russian rocket strike on a restaurant in Kramatorsk, Ukraine killed three people and injured over 40. A popular Pizza restaurant was destroyed, trapping some people under the rubble. Rescue efforts were underway.

Ukraine war: 4 killed, 42 injured in Russian missile strike on Kramatorsk

The United States is stepping up sanctions heat on Prigozhin's Wagner mercenary group. The latest round targets companies accused of illicit gold dealings to fund the mercenary group. This includes sanctions on two companies based in Central African republic. Previous US Sanctions against Wagner group had been put on hold. The latest round however were put in place following the Wagner chief's exile to Belarus. Russian mercenary leader yevgeny prigozhin flew to Belarus after being exiled from the Russian federation.

US treasury sanctions Wagner group's financiers in Africa

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 said he persuaded Russian President Vladimir Putin not to "wipe out" mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, in response to what the Kremlin cast as a mutiny that pushed Russia towards civil war.

Lukashenko: We want Wagner's was experience in our army

Wagner Chief Yevgeny Prigozhin has for the first time released an audio statement since aborting an armed rebellion. He says he wasn't aiming to go against the Russian Authorities but he was trying to protect his group from disbanding. He released an 11-minute audio statement post Wagner Mutiny, keep watching to know more.

Wagner Chief Prigozhin defends decision to stage march

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky handed out awards to troops and posed for selfies with soldiers during a visit to the eastern region of Donetsk, footage of which was posted online on Monday.

Zelensky hands out awards, poses for selfies with Ukrainian troops

Was the Wagner Mutiny a double game? Is Prigozhin's exile a redeployment? Is he Kremlin's Trojan Horse? Molly Gambhir takes you through the claims that are being made around his exile to Belarus.

Was the Wagner Mutiny a double game?

What is Belarus gaining from the chaos

The White House on Monday released a statement saying that the US diplomats spoke to their Russian counterparts and discussed the security concerns involved during the revolt by the mercenary group Wagner.

The mutiny by Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin prompted this rare contact between Russia and the United States. The revolt had briefly taken control of a major city and had also threatened to attack Moscow. The turmoil ignited fears in Washington that nuclear-armed Russia could plunge into chaos.

"Instability in Russia is something that, you know, we take seriously and we certainly had lots of questions over the course of the weekend," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said when asked about fears over turmoil in nuclear-armed Russia.

"We did have and were able to have in real-time -- through diplomatic channels -- conversations with Russian officials about our concerns," he said.

Kirby further stated that United States officials continue to monitor Moscow's nuclear posture "very closely" during the invasion by Russian troops of pro-Western Ukraine.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-putin-begins-address-to-russians-thanks-citizens-for-patriotism-during-wagner-revolt-609015">Putin says Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus' in his address to Russians</a>

So far there is "no indication" that Russian President Vladimir Putin is moving in the "direction" of using nuclear weapons or "anything that will cause us to change our own deterrent posture," Kirby said.

<h2>West 'had nothing to do' with Russia's Wagner revolt, says Biden</h2>

United States President Joe Biden, on Monday (June 26), said that Russian President Vladimir Putin has “no excuse” to blame the Wagner group’s aborted march on Washington and that the West had “had nothing to do” with it. This comes as Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reportedly said that the country’s intelligence services are in the midst of investigating if Western spy agencies played a role in the Wagner mutiny.

Addressing a press conference, on Monday, the US president spoke about how when the revolt began he spoke to his key allies about the situation which was unfolding in Russia at the time. “I also convened our key allies on a Zoom call,” said Biden. He added, “They agreed that we had to make sure we gave Putin no excuse...to blame this on the West and to blame this on NATO.”&nbsp;

The US president also said that the turmoil was “part of the struggle within the Russian system.” This comes after mercenary group Wagner’s chief Yevgeny Prigozhin declared an armed rebellion in Russia with Putin saying that he is determined to quash the said revolt, which claimed to have seized control of the southern Russian city of Rostov-on-Don, on Saturday.&nbsp;

In a brief statement, the White House, on Saturday said that Biden held a call with French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and the United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to discuss the “situation in Russia” and “affirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine".

Furthermore, the US president also said that it’s “too early” to draw any definitive conclusions on “where this is going.” He added, “We’re going to keep assessing the fallout of this weekend’s events and the implications for Russia and Ukraine.”&nbsp;

However, Biden also stressed that his key Western allies are in touch with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and they will “continue to support Ukraine’s defence and sovereignty and its territorial integrity.” The US president also said that he will be calling key allies again Monday without mentioning who would be a part of this meeting.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The White House on Monday released a statement saying that the US diplomats spoke to their Russian counterparts and discussed the security concerns involved during the revolt by the mercenary group Wagner.

The White House on Monday released a statement saying that the US diplomats spoke to their Russian counterparts and discussed the security concerns involved during the revolt by the mercenary group Wagner. The mutiny by Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin prompted this rare contact between Russia and the United States. The revolt had briefly taken control of a major city and had also threatened to attack Moscow. The turmoil ignited fears in Washington that nuclear-armed Russia could plunge into chaos. "Instability in Russia is something that, you know, we take seriously and we certainly had lots of questions over the course of the weekend," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said when asked about fears over turmoil in nuclear-armed Russia. "We did have and were able to have in real-time -- through diplomatic channels -- conversations with Russian officials about our concerns," he said. Kirby further stated that United States officials continue to monitor Moscow's nuclear posture "very closely" during the invasion by Russian troops of pro-Western Ukraine. Also read: Putin says Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus' in his address to Russians So far there is "no indication" that Russian President Vladimir Putin is moving in the "direction" of using nuclear weapons or "anything that will cause us to change our own deterrent posture," Kirby said. West 'had nothing to do' with Russia's Wagner revolt, says Biden United States President Joe Biden, on Monday (June 26), said that Russian President Vladimir Putin has “no excuse” to blame the Wagner group’s aborted march on Washington and that the West had “had nothing to do” with it. This comes as Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reportedly said that the country’s intelligence services are in the midst of investigating if Western spy agencies played a role in the Wagner mutiny. Addressing a press conference, on Monday, the US president spoke about how when the revolt began he spoke to his key allies about the situation which was unfolding in Russia at the time. “I also convened our key allies on a Zoom call,” said Biden. He added, “They agreed that we had to make sure we gave Putin no excuse...to blame this on the West and to blame this on NATO.” The US president also said that the turmoil was “part of the struggle within the Russian system.” This comes after mercenary group Wagner’s chief Yevgeny Prigozhin declared an armed rebellion in Russia with Putin saying that he is determined to quash the said revolt, which claimed to have seized control of the southern Russian city of Rostov-on-Don, on Saturday. In a brief statement, the White House, on Saturday said that Biden held a call with French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and the United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to discuss the “situation in Russia” and “affirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine". Furthermore, the US president also said that it’s “too early” to draw any definitive conclusions on “where this is going.” He added, “We’re going to keep assessing the fallout of this weekend’s events and the implications for Russia and Ukraine.” However, Biden also stressed that his key Western allies are in touch with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and they will “continue to support Ukraine’s defence and sovereignty and its territorial integrity.” The US president also said that he will be calling key allies again Monday without mentioning who would be a part of this meeting. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US spoke to Russian counterparts to discuss security concerns during Wagner revolt, says White House

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the nation late on Monday, thanked Russians for their 'patriotism' during the mercenary revolt.

"I once again appeal to all citizens of Russia. Thank you for your endurance, solidarity and patriotism. This civil solidarity has shown that any blackmail, any attempt to create internal turmoil is doomed to failure. I repeat, we saw the greatest consolidation of society, executive and legislative power at all levels. A firm, unambiguous position in support of the constitutional order was taken by public organisations, religious denominations, and leading political parties. In fact, the entire Russian society,” he said.

"An armed rebellion would have been suppressed in any case. The organisers of the rebellion, despite being inadequate, could not fail to understand this. They understood everything. Including that they undertook criminal acts, to split and weaken the country, which is now confronting a colossal external threat, unprecedented pressure from outside. When on the frontline - with the words "Not a step back!" - our comrades are dying," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-putin-makes-first-public-appearance-in-video-address-since-aborted-mutiny-608861">Russia's Putin makes first public appearance in video address since aborted mutiny</a>

<h2>Putin says West, Ukraine wanted Russians to 'kill each other'</h2>

He further condemned 'Russia's enemies' (Ukraine and Western countries) for wanting the "Russian soldiers to kill each other".

"However, the organisers of the rebellion, betraying their country, and their people, betrayed those who were lured into the crime. They lied to them, pushed them towards death, under fire, to shoot their own (people). It was precisely this outcome - fratricide - that Russia's enemies wanted: both the neo-Nazis in Kyiv, and their Western masters, and all sorts of national traitors. They wanted Russian soldiers to kill each other."

He then thanked the Wagner mercenary fighters and commanders who had stood down to avoid bloodshed.

“We knew and we know that the vast majority of the fighters and commanders of the Wagner Group are also Russian patriots, devoted to their people and state. They proved it with their courage on the battlefield, liberating the Donbas and Novorossiya. They tried to use them in the dark against their brothers-in-arms, with whom they fought together for the sake of the country and its future. Therefore, from the very beginning of the events, on my direct instructions, steps were taken to avoid a lot of bloodshed."

He said that he would honour his promise to allow Wagner fighters to relocate to Belarus, if they wanted, or to sign a contract with the Defence Ministry or simply return to their families.

"I thank those soldiers and commanders of the Wagner Group who made the only right decision - they did not turn to fratricidal bloodshed, they stopped at the last line. Today you have the opportunity to continue serving Russia by entering into a contract with the Ministry of Defence or other law enforcement agencies or to return to your family and friends. Whoever wants to can go to Belarus. The promise I made will be fulfilled."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the nation late on Monday, thanked Russians for their 'patriotism' during the mercenary revolt. "I once again appeal to all citizens of Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the nation late on Monday, thanked Russians for their 'patriotism' during the mercenary revolt. "I once again appeal to all citizens of Russia. Thank you for your endurance, solidarity and patriotism. This civil solidarity has shown that any blackmail, any attempt to create internal turmoil is doomed to failure. I repeat, we saw the greatest consolidation of society, executive and legislative power at all levels. A firm, unambiguous position in support of the constitutional order was taken by public organisations, religious denominations, and leading political parties. In fact, the entire Russian society,” he said. "An armed rebellion would have been suppressed in any case. The organisers of the rebellion, despite being inadequate, could not fail to understand this. They understood everything. Including that they undertook criminal acts, to split and weaken the country, which is now confronting a colossal external threat, unprecedented pressure from outside. When on the frontline - with the words "Not a step back!" - our comrades are dying," he added. Also read: Russia's Putin makes first public appearance in video address since aborted mutiny Putin says West, Ukraine wanted Russians to 'kill each other' He further condemned 'Russia's enemies' (Ukraine and Western countries) for wanting the "Russian soldiers to kill each other". "However, the organisers of the rebellion, betraying their country, and their people, betrayed those who were lured into the crime. They lied to them, pushed them towards death, under fire, to shoot their own (people). It was precisely this outcome - fratricide - that Russia's enemies wanted: both the neo-Nazis in Kyiv, and their Western masters, and all sorts of national traitors. They wanted Russian soldiers to kill each other." He then thanked the Wagner mercenary fighters and commanders who had stood down to avoid bloodshed. “We knew and we know that the vast majority of the fighters and commanders of the Wagner Group are also Russian patriots, devoted to their people and state. They proved it with their courage on the battlefield, liberating the Donbas and Novorossiya. They tried to use them in the dark against their brothers-in-arms, with whom they fought together for the sake of the country and its future. Therefore, from the very beginning of the events, on my direct instructions, steps were taken to avoid a lot of bloodshed." He said that he would honour his promise to allow Wagner fighters to relocate to Belarus, if they wanted, or to sign a contract with the Defence Ministry or simply return to their families. "I thank those soldiers and commanders of the Wagner Group who made the only right decision - they did not turn to fratricidal bloodshed, they stopped at the last line. Today you have the opportunity to continue serving Russia by entering into a contract with the Ministry of Defence or other law enforcement agencies or to return to your family and friends. Whoever wants to can go to Belarus. The promise I made will be fulfilled." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Putin says Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus' in his address to Russians

Russian President said he let the aborted mutiny go on as long as it did to avoid bloodshed, while Wagner boss said he never intended to overthrow the government. Putin's televised address was his first public comment since Saturday, when he had said the rebellion threatened Russia's very existence and those behind it would be punished. Meanwhile, the United States' envoy in Moscow reached out to Russian officials. What's next for Wagner fighters?

Wagner boss: Don't regret strikes on Russian aircraft, they dropped bomb on us

From being considered Moscow's armed wing abroad. To being called the traitors. Wagner group is having a rough ride. The halted rebellion led by Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin is posing some serious issues for the group.

What will happen to Wagner's operations in Africa after the end of the mutiny in Moscow?

Moscow withdraws case against Wagner rebels while Putin addresses defence ministry

Wagner revolt: Ukraine and allies wanted Russians to kill each other, says Putin

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Russian security agencies have now confirmed that it is dropping charges against the Wagner Mercenary group. The Wagner group is accused of staging an armed Mutiny to topple the country's military leadership the authorities have demanded the transformed classified Wagner Hardware to Moscow.

Wagner group's hardware to be transferred to Moscow

Russian President Vladimir Putin's favorite rock group Lyube whose patriotic songs are played during the torture of dissidents has made more money from the Kremlin-sponsored concerts than they did in the previous eight years our.

Lyube is Russian President Vladimir Putin's favourite band

Has the aborted Wagner Mutiny shaken Putin's authority? Has it sowed seeds of dissent among Russians? Here's what Molly Gambhir has to say.

Gravitas: Wagner Mutiny: Has Putin's credibility been damaged?

This weekend was tense for Russia as Russia's contractor Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin started walking in the opposite direction to Ukraine. He took control of the military headquarters in Russia and threatened to march toward Moscow claiming that Putin made the wrong choice. Keep watching to get updated on the status of the Wagner.

Wagner Mutiny: World watches and reacts

This weekend was tense for Russia as Russia's contractor Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin started walking in the opposite direction to Ukraine. He took control of the military headquarters in Russia and threatened to march toward Moscow claiming that Putin made the wrong choice. Keep watching this interview with Defence Expert, John Erath to know more about this rebellion.

The fallout of Wagner group's rebellion

Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals.

In a relatively credible biographical account of Vladimir Putin's life, 'His Life and Times: Putin' by British journalist Philip Short, the Russian president has been described as ruthless, shockingly pragmatic and a leader with autocratic bend who hates historical amnesia — a loss of collective national memory about an event — a euphemism for present-day Russia's lost Soviet glory.<img alt="Putin Biography" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1b47ffe9-ba73-45b3-b31b-618e023bed36" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-25T205019.484.png" />

But over the weekend, after Putin's own former chef-turned-businessman-turned-warlord directed his mercenaries towards Moscow, the shockwaves were felt across global capitals. The people in newsrooms, like this writer, felt they were witnessing history. A coup d'état appeared nearly imminent.&nbsp;

But in less than 36 hours, the armed uprising by Russia's Wagner mercenary group led by its boss Yevgeny Prigozhin ended as dramatically as it began. Putin's shocking pragmatism prevailed after he deployed one of his vassal states' leaders to diffuse the crisis. Prigozhin is now in Belarus after pulling his men back to their bases.&nbsp;<img alt="Vladimir Putin | Reuters" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5a95e5c5-8616-4e3e-885b-6a86121c2ccb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-25T115710.522.png" />

Here is a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-rebellion-when-putins-former-chef-served-a-dish-of-treason-ten-points-608452">blow-by-blow account</a> of the hours when Putin's former chef served him a dish of 'treason'.&nbsp;

More on The Capitals from capitals other than Moscow.

<h2>Washington DC, United States</h2>

<img alt="India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Joe Biden during a White House state dinner hosted in former's honour" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fcc9d393-df46-4ffc-a0e3-db9197ad3e8a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-23T091155.002_0.png" />

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Joe Biden during a White House state dinner hosted in former's honour | AFP

A State Dinner in the White House. A subtle insertion of democratic values advocated by great Indian Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore — <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/where-the-mind-is-without-fear-biden-invokes-tagore-in-state-dinner-for-modi-607649">'Where the mind is without fear</a>' — and a mega bilateral convergence on business interests. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's State Visit to the United States had everything but lows.&nbsp;

Riding on India's moment of growth, Modi addressed the US Congress, met top business leaders and brought home billions in investments. India announced that it will sign Artemis Accords, a non-binding multilateral arrangement between the US and other governments designed to guide civil space exploration.&nbsp;

The two nations also hailed 'giant leap' in cooperation on space science, chip development and mineral security.&nbsp;

<h2>Paris, France</h2>

<img alt="Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at a climate finance summit in Paris | @LulaOfficial/Twitter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f34142b5-3dfd-405d-b12d-eea703dcb655" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-25T154157.736.png" />

Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at a climate finance summit in Paris | @LulaOfficial/Twitter

In yet another moment of Global South's geo-economic assertion, US dollar’s role as primary reserve currency for global trade was challenged at a finance summit in Paris by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Brazilian counterpart Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva after the US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen defended the oversized role of US dollar in global markets.

"Why can’t we trade in our own currencies?" Brazilian President Lula asked an assertive US treasury secretary Janet Yellen.

South African President Ramaphosa said that the "issue of currency" would be discussed at the upcoming meeting of BRICS countries later this year, which South Africa is scheduled to host in August.

<h2>Athens, Greece</h2>

<img alt="Greece election" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="124177fd-5dbd-4b33-aa29-9c006e70102c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-06-25T210732.487.png" />

People visit the Areios Pagos hill, with the Acropolis' Propylaea seen in the background, in Athens, Greece | Representative image/Reuters

For the corridors of power in one of the world's oldest capitals, voters across Greece headed to a repeat election this weekend. Fomer Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is seeking a second term to form the government.&nbsp;

Mitsotakis' New Democratic party won the election on May 21, twenty points clear of rival Alexis Tsipras' Syriza party. However, it fell short of the majority needed to rule without forming a coalition. As election rules this time would accord up to 50 bonus seats to the winner of the vote, the New Democracy party is widely projected to emerge victorious.

That's all for The Capitals this week. See you next weekend.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. In a relatively credible biographical account of Vladimir Putin's life, 'His Life and Times: Putin' by British journalist Philip Short, the Russian president has been described as ruthless, shockingly pragmatic and a leader with autocratic bend who hates historical amnesia — a loss of collective national memory about an event — a euphemism for present-day Russia's lost Soviet glory.

Hello and Welcome. This is The Capitals. In a relatively credible biographical account of Vladimir Putin's life, 'His Life and Times: Putin' by British journalist Philip Short, the Russian president has been described as ruthless, shockingly pragmatic and a leader with autocratic bend who hates historical amnesia — a loss of collective national memory about an event — a euphemism for present-day Russia's lost Soviet glory. But over the weekend, after Putin's own former chef-turned-businessman-turned-warlord directed his mercenaries towards Moscow, the shockwaves were felt across global capitals. The people in newsrooms, like this writer, felt they were witnessing history. A coup d'état appeared nearly imminent. But in less than 36 hours, the armed uprising by Russia's Wagner mercenary group led by its boss Yevgeny Prigozhin ended as dramatically as it began. Putin's shocking pragmatism prevailed after he deployed one of his vassal states' leaders to diffuse the crisis. Prigozhin is now in Belarus after pulling his men back to their bases. Here is a blow-by-blow account of the hours when Putin's former chef served him a dish of 'treason'. More on The Capitals from capitals other than Moscow. Washington DC, United States India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Joe Biden during a White House state dinner hosted in former's honour | AFP A State Dinner in the White House. A subtle insertion of democratic values advocated by great Indian Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore — 'Where the mind is without fear' — and a mega bilateral convergence on business interests. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's State Visit to the United States had everything but lows. Riding on India's moment of growth, Modi addressed the US Congress, met top business leaders and brought home billions in investments. India announced that it will sign Artemis Accords, a non-binding multilateral arrangement between the US and other governments designed to guide civil space exploration. The two nations also hailed 'giant leap' in cooperation on space science, chip development and mineral security. Paris, France Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at a climate finance summit in Paris | @LulaOfficial/Twitter In yet another moment of Global South's geo-economic assertion, US dollar’s role as primary reserve currency for global trade was challenged at a finance summit in Paris by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Brazilian counterpart Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva after the US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen defended the oversized role of US dollar in global markets. "Why can’t we trade in our own currencies?" Brazilian President Lula asked an assertive US treasury secretary Janet Yellen. South African President Ramaphosa said that the "issue of currency" would be discussed at the upcoming meeting of BRICS countries later this year, which South Africa is scheduled to host in August. Athens, Greece People visit the Areios Pagos hill, with the Acropolis' Propylaea seen in the background, in Athens, Greece | Representative image/Reuters For the corridors of power in one of the world's oldest capitals, voters across Greece headed to a repeat election this weekend. Fomer Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is seeking a second term to form the government. Mitsotakis' New Democratic party won the election on May 21, twenty points clear of rival Alexis Tsipras' Syriza party. However, it fell short of the majority needed to rule without forming a coalition. As election rules this time would accord up to 50 bonus seats to the winner of the vote, the New Democracy party is widely projected to emerge victorious. That's all for The Capitals this week. See you next weekend. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

The Capitals: Moscow dodges mutiny bullet, Global South cements its rise in Washington and Paris

Vladimir Putin, Russia's president, is currently dealing with an unexpected situation, as Wagner's soldiers have turned against him. Yevgeny Prigozhin, the commander of the mercenary gang, is waging a military coup against the Kremlin. He specifically chastised the Russian Defence Ministry for apparently going too far in dealing with the Wagner group. According to Prigozhin, accusing the Russian president of treason is inaccurate.

Wagner troops advancing towards Moscow

Vladimir Putin, Russia's president, is currently dealing with an unexpected situation, as Wagner's soldiers have turned against him. Yevgeny Prigozhin, the commander of the mercenary gang, is waging a military coup against the Kremlin. He specifically chastised the Russian Defence Ministry for apparently going too far in dealing with the Wagner group. According to Prigozhin, accusing the Russian president of treason is inaccurate. To know more watch this interview with a Professor at at National Defense University, Colonel (R) David B Res Roches.

Russia: Travel checks in town in town 200 km South Moscow

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the mercenary group Wagner's chief,&nbsp;on Friday, accused Moscow's military leadership of ordering strikes on his camps and killing a "huge" number of forces.&nbsp;

"We were ready to make concessions to the defence ministry, surrender our weapons," Prigozhin said in an audio message released by his spokespeople.&nbsp;

"Today, seeing that we have not been broken, they conducted missile strikes at our rear camps," he added.&nbsp;

The Russian defence ministry has denied Prigozhin's claims of strikes on camps of Wagner&nbsp;forces. As per a report by CNN,&nbsp;Russia’s domestic intelligence service has now&nbsp;opened a criminal case against him.

<h2>There was no need for Russia to invade Ukraine&nbsp;</h2>

Wagner chief also blamed defence minister Sergei Shoigu for starting the war in Ukraine in February last year.&nbsp;

Prigozhin has often accused Shoigu and some other officials during the course of the war, but the latest allegation is significant, as it questions Russia's justifications for invading Ukraine.&nbsp;

In a video posted on social media on&nbsp;Friday (June 23), the Wagner chief can be heard saying that Russia did not face any imminent security threat to justify the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

In a half-hour video released by his press service, Prigozhin&nbsp;said, "The Armed Forces of Ukraine were not going to attack Russia with the NATO bloc. The Russian Defence Ministry is deceiving the public and the president."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-to-have-rippled-13-cruise-missiles-fired-by-russia-607781">Ukraine claims to have struck down 13 cruise missiles fired by Russia</a>&nbsp;

"On 24 February [2022] there was nothing extraordinary happening there. Now the Ministry of Defence is trying to deceive the public, deceive the president and tell a story that there was some crazy aggression by Ukraine, that - together with the whole NATO&nbsp;bloc - Ukraine was planning to attack us," he said.&nbsp;

"The war was needed... so that Shoigu could become a Marshal, so that he could get a second Hero Star… the war wasn't for demilitarising or de-nazifying Ukraine. It was needed for an extra star," he further added.&nbsp;

"Why did the special military operation begin? ... the war was needed for the self-promotion of a bunch of ba***rds," he added, further blaming Russian military leadership for "poorly planning" the invasion and "embarrassing" because of the setbacks on the battlefield.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-mounts-legal-challenge-to-keep-embassy-site-near-australian-parliament-607792">Russia mounts legal challenge to keep embassy site near Australian parliament</a>&nbsp;

He said, "Shoigu killed thousands of the most combat-ready Russian soldiers in the first days of the war. The mentally ill sc**bags decided 'It's okay, we'll throw in a few thousand more Russian men as cannon fodder.&nbsp;They'll die under artillery fire, but we'll get what we want'."&nbsp;

"That's why it has become a protracted war," he said.&nbsp;

Prigozhin said that the war was also needed to enrich the ruling elite who were not satisfied with the commercial potential of part of Ukraine's Donbas region that Moscow seized control of in 2014 via a proxy separatist force.&nbsp;

He said, "The task was to divide material assets (in Ukraine). There was massive theft in the Donbas, but they wanted more."&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Russian diplomat stages protest as Australia dismisses lease for Moscow embassy&nbsp;

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<h2>Russia 'retreating' from Ukraine attacks&nbsp;</h2>

Wagner's chief also said that Moscow's forces are retreating in Ukraine's east and south following Kyiv's counteroffensive - remarks that are basically contradicting recent assessments by Russian President Vladimir Putin that Ukraine was suffering "catastrophic" losses.&nbsp;

"On the ground now ... the Russian army is retreating on the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson fronts. The Armed Forces of Ukraine are pushing back the Russian army," Prigozhin said on social media.&nbsp;

Last year, just a few days after launching the invasion, Russia claimed that it annexed the southern Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. &nbsp;

"We are washing ourselves in blood. No one is bringing reserves. What they tell us is the deepest deception," Prigozhin added, referring to the Russian military and political leadership.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Yevgeny Prigozhin, the mercenary group Wagner's chief, on Friday, accused Moscow's military leadership of ordering strikes on his camps and killing a "huge" number of forces.

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the mercenary group Wagner's chief, on Friday, accused Moscow's military leadership of ordering strikes on his camps and killing a "huge" number of forces. "We were ready to make concessions to the defence ministry, surrender our weapons," Prigozhin said in an audio message released by his spokespeople. "Today, seeing that we have not been broken, they conducted missile strikes at our rear camps," he added. The Russian defence ministry has denied Prigozhin's claims of strikes on camps of Wagner forces. As per a report by CNN, Russia’s domestic intelligence service has now opened a criminal case against him. There was no need for Russia to invade Ukraine Wagner chief also blamed defence minister Sergei Shoigu for starting the war in Ukraine in February last year. Prigozhin has often accused Shoigu and some other officials during the course of the war, but the latest allegation is significant, as it questions Russia's justifications for invading Ukraine. In a video posted on social media on Friday (June 23), the Wagner chief can be heard saying that Russia did not face any imminent security threat to justify the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In a half-hour video released by his press service, Prigozhin said, "The Armed Forces of Ukraine were not going to attack Russia with the NATO bloc. The Russian Defence Ministry is deceiving the public and the president." Also read: Ukraine claims to have struck down 13 cruise missiles fired by Russia "On 24 February [2022] there was nothing extraordinary happening there. Now the Ministry of Defence is trying to deceive the public, deceive the president and tell a story that there was some crazy aggression by Ukraine, that - together with the whole NATO bloc - Ukraine was planning to attack us," he said. "The war was needed... so that Shoigu could become a Marshal, so that he could get a second Hero Star… the war wasn't for demilitarising or de-nazifying Ukraine. It was needed for an extra star," he further added. "Why did the special military operation begin? ... the war was needed for the self-promotion of a bunch of ba***rds," he added, further blaming Russian military leadership for "poorly planning" the invasion and "embarrassing" because of the setbacks on the battlefield. Also read: Russia mounts legal challenge to keep embassy site near Australian parliament He said, "Shoigu killed thousands of the most combat-ready Russian soldiers in the first days of the war. The mentally ill sc**bags decided 'It's okay, we'll throw in a few thousand more Russian men as cannon fodder. They'll die under artillery fire, but we'll get what we want'." "That's why it has become a protracted war," he said. Prigozhin said that the war was also needed to enrich the ruling elite who were not satisfied with the commercial potential of part of Ukraine's Donbas region that Moscow seized control of in 2014 via a proxy separatist force. He said, "The task was to divide material assets (in Ukraine). There was massive theft in the Donbas, but they wanted more." Watch: Russian diplomat stages protest as Australia dismisses lease for Moscow embassy × Russia 'retreating' from Ukraine attacks Wagner's chief also said that Moscow's forces are retreating in Ukraine's east and south following Kyiv's counteroffensive - remarks that are basically contradicting recent assessments by Russian President Vladimir Putin that Ukraine was suffering "catastrophic" losses. "On the ground now ... the Russian army is retreating on the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson fronts. The Armed Forces of Ukraine are pushing back the Russian army," Prigozhin said on social media. Last year, just a few days after launching the invasion, Russia claimed that it annexed the southern Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. "We are washing ourselves in blood. No one is bringing reserves. What they tell us is the deepest deception," Prigozhin added, referring to the Russian military and political leadership. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (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.

Wagner chief accuses Russian military of bombing his forces, vows revenge

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