<p>Amid an armed rebellion declared by mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin in Russia, world leaders are reacting to the development.&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin declared on Saturday his determination to quash the rebellion, which&nbsp;claimed to have seized control of the southern Russian city of Rostov-on-Don.&nbsp;“All those who prepared the rebellion will suffer inevitable punishment. The armed forces and other government agencies have received the necessary orders,” Putin said, as per media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>UK&nbsp;PM calls for protecting civilians</strong></h2>

<p>The British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, expressed his concern over the situation in Russia, where an armed insurrection led by Prigozhin took control of Rostov-on-Don. He emphasised the importance of protecting civilians and called on all parties involved to act responsibly.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/archaeologists-unearth-4000-year-old-stonehenge-burial-ground-in-the-netherlands-608203">Archaeologists unearth 4,000-year-old ‘Stonehenge’ burial ground in the Netherlands</a></p>

<p>The British government stated that the Wagner Group forces had crossed from Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine to Russia and had likely occupied key security sites in Rostov-on-Don. They also noted the movement of additional Wagner units toward Moscow.</p>

<h2><strong>White House is monitoring situation</strong></h2>

<p>President Joe Biden has been briefed on the situation in Russia, which US officials describe as serious. The White House National Security Council is monitoring the situation and consulting with allies and partners.</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky says insurrection reveals Russia's weakness</strong></h2>

<p>President Zelensky highlighted the political instability within Russia, indicating that the armed insurrection by the Wagner mercenary group reveals Russia's weakness. He underscored Ukraine's ability to protect Europe from the spread of Russian chaos.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-rolls-out-perspectives-tab-in-major-search-engine-revamp-608201">Google rolls out 'Perspectives' tab in major search-engine revamp</a></p>

<p>"Russia's weakness is obvious. Full-scale weakness. And the longer Russia keeps its troops and mercenaries on our land, the more chaos, pain, and problems it will have for itself later," he said and added, "Ukraine is able to protect Europe from the spread of Russian evil and chaos."</p>

<h2><strong>Poland leaders hold consultations</strong></h2>

<p>Poland President Andrzej Duda&nbsp;held consultations with the prime minister and the Ministry of Defense in response to the situation in Russia. He mentioned that they are closely monitoring the events unfolding beyond their eastern border.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="pl">W związku z sytuacją w Rosji odbyliśmy dziś rano konsultacje z Premierem i MON, a także z Sojusznikami. Przebieg wydarzeń za naszą wschodnią granicą jest na bieżąco monitorowany.</p>
— Andrzej Duda (@AndrzejDuda) <a href="https://twitter.com/AndrzejDuda/status/1672504750464540672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Estonia and Latvia</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Kaja Kallas of Estonia assured that there is no direct threat to their country but emphasised that border security has been strengthened.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Estonia is closely following the development of the situation in Russia and exchanging information with allies.<br />
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I can assure that there is no direct threat to our country.<br />
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Border security has been strengthened. I also urge our people not to travel to any part of Russia.</p>
— Kaja Kallas (@kajakallas) <a href="https://twitter.com/kajakallas/status/1672528415134556161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Watch | 'Putin's chef' vs Defence Minister: Where has Wagner operated?</strong></p>

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<p>She advised people not to travel to any part of Russia. President Egils Levits of Latvia stated that their state leadership and relevant services are closely monitoring the events in Russia, and border control has been strengthened.</p>

<h2>Macron reaffirms&nbsp;focus on supporting Ukraine</h2>

<p>The French President, Emmanuel Macron, is closely following the situation in Russia and reaffirmed their focus on supporting Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>Germany&nbsp;</strong>closely monitoring events</h2>

<p>The German government spokesperson said the country is closely monitoring the events in Russia.</p>

<h2><strong>Italy PM:&nbsp;</strong>Ukraine assault causing instability in Russia<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Meloni is closely following the events in Russia while at the same time rebuked Russia for its 'assaalt' on Ukraine.&nbsp;"Prime Minister Meloni is closely following events in Russia, which show that its assault on Ukraine is causing instability within Russia," her office said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Romania govt in touch with allies</strong></h2>

<p>President Klaus Iohannis of Romania stated that Romanian authorities are closely monitoring the events in Russia. They are in constant contact with their allies and remain informed about the developments.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Czech FM:&nbsp;</strong>My summer vacation in Crimea approaching<strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Czech Republic Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky humorously commented on the situation, mentioning his upcoming summer vacation in Crimea.&nbsp;Lipavsky wrote, "I see that my summer vacation in Crimea is approaching."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="cs">Koukám, že se moje letní dovolená na Krymu přibližuje. ⛱️🇺🇦</p>
— Jan Lipavský (@JanLipavsky) <a href="https://twitter.com/JanLipavsky/status/1672501993762435072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>EU chief&nbsp;</strong> affirms&nbsp;unwavering support for Ukraine</h2>

<p>The EU is carefully observing the developments in Russia following the rebellion led by the Wagner mercenary group. EU Chief Charles Michel stated that they are in touch with their G7 partners and affirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine.</p>

<h2><strong>Iran: Wagner Group mutiny&nbsp;Russia's internal issue</strong></h2>

<p>Terming it an internal issue, Tehran said that it upholds the rule of law. This comes as&nbsp;Nasser Kanani, spokesperson for the Iranian foreign ministry was speaking over the recent developments in Russia.</p>

<p>"The Islamic Republic of Iran supports the rule of law in the Russian Federation," Nasser Kan'ani said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Canada will convene an emergency meeting to take stock of the situation. Meanwhile, North Korea expressed support for Moscow over mutiny.&nbsp;</p>

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Amid an armed rebellion declared by mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin in Russia, world leaders are reacting to the development. President Vladimir Putin declared on Saturday his determination to quash the rebellion, which claimed to have seized control of the southern Russian city of Rostov-on-Don.

Amid an armed rebellion declared by mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin in Russia, world leaders are reacting to the development. President Vladimir Putin declared on Saturday his determination to quash the rebellion, which claimed to have seized control of the southern Russian city of Rostov-on-Don. “All those who prepared the rebellion will suffer inevitable punishment. The armed forces and other government agencies have received the necessary orders,” Putin said, as per media reports. UK PM calls for protecting civilians The British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, expressed his concern over the situation in Russia, where an armed insurrection led by Prigozhin took control of Rostov-on-Don. He emphasised the importance of protecting civilians and called on all parties involved to act responsibly. Also Read | Archaeologists unearth 4,000-year-old ‘Stonehenge’ burial ground in the Netherlands The British government stated that the Wagner Group forces had crossed from Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine to Russia and had likely occupied key security sites in Rostov-on-Don. They also noted the movement of additional Wagner units toward Moscow. White House is monitoring situation President Joe Biden has been briefed on the situation in Russia, which US officials describe as serious. The White House National Security Council is monitoring the situation and consulting with allies and partners. Zelensky says insurrection reveals Russia's weakness President Zelensky highlighted the political instability within Russia, indicating that the armed insurrection by the Wagner mercenary group reveals Russia's weakness. He underscored Ukraine's ability to protect Europe from the spread of Russian chaos. Also Read | Google rolls out 'Perspectives' tab in major search-engine revamp "Russia's weakness is obvious. Full-scale weakness. And the longer Russia keeps its troops and mercenaries on our land, the more chaos, pain, and problems it will have for itself later," he said and added, "Ukraine is able to protect Europe from the spread of Russian evil and chaos." Poland leaders hold consultations Poland President Andrzej Duda held consultations with the prime minister and the Ministry of Defense in response to the situation in Russia. He mentioned that they are closely monitoring the events unfolding beyond their eastern border. W związku z sytuacją w Rosji odbyliśmy dziś rano konsultacje z Premierem i MON, a także z Sojusznikami. Przebieg wydarzeń za naszą wschodnią granicą jest na bieżąco monitorowany. — Andrzej Duda (@AndrzejDuda) June 24, 2023 × Estonia and Latvia Prime Minister Kaja Kallas of Estonia assured that there is no direct threat to their country but emphasised that border security has been strengthened. Estonia is closely following the development of the situation in Russia and exchanging information with allies. I can assure that there is no direct threat to our country. Border security has been strengthened. I also urge our people not to travel to any part of Russia. — Kaja Kallas (@kajakallas) June 24, 2023 × Watch | 'Putin's chef' vs Defence Minister: Where has Wagner operated? × She advised people not to travel to any part of Russia. President Egils Levits of Latvia stated that their state leadership and relevant services are closely monitoring the events in Russia, and border control has been strengthened. Macron reaffirms focus on supporting Ukraine The French President, Emmanuel Macron, is closely following the situation in Russia and reaffirmed their focus on supporting Ukraine. Germany closely monitoring events The German government spokesperson said the country is closely monitoring the events in Russia. Italy PM: Ukraine assault causing instability in Russia Prime Minister Meloni is closely following the events in Russia while at the same time rebuked Russia for its 'assaalt' on Ukraine. "Prime Minister Meloni is closely following events in Russia, which show that its assault on Ukraine is causing instability within Russia," her office said. Romania govt in touch with allies President Klaus Iohannis of Romania stated that Romanian authorities are closely monitoring the events in Russia. They are in constant contact with their allies and remain informed about the developments. Czech FM: My summer vacation in Crimea approaching Czech Republic Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky humorously commented on the situation, mentioning his upcoming summer vacation in Crimea. Lipavsky wrote, "I see that my summer vacation in Crimea is approaching." Koukám, že se moje letní dovolená na Krymu přibližuje. ⛱️🇺🇦 — Jan Lipavský (@JanLipavsky) June 24, 2023 × EU chief affirms unwavering support for Ukraine The EU is carefully observing the developments in Russia following the rebellion led by the Wagner mercenary group. EU Chief Charles Michel stated that they are in touch with their G7 partners and affirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine. Iran: Wagner Group mutiny Russia's internal issue Terming it an internal issue, Tehran said that it upholds the rule of law. This comes as Nasser Kanani, spokesperson for the Iranian foreign ministry was speaking over the recent developments in Russia. "The Islamic Republic of Iran supports the rule of law in the Russian Federation," Nasser Kan'ani said in a statement. Canada will convene an emergency meeting to take stock of the situation. Meanwhile, North Korea expressed support for Moscow over mutiny. 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. ×

How global leaders reacted to rebellion in Russia, Wagner's control of Rostov-on-Don

<p>Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang met with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko, on Sunday (June 25), in Beijing, where the two countries discussed “international” issues. This comes amid Russia’s mercenary group Wagner group’s mutinous threat to storm the capital city of Moscow, challenging President Vladimir Putin’s decades-long power over the country. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did Russian and Chinese diplomats discuss?</strong></h2>

<p>In a one-line statement, on their website, the Chinese foreign ministry said Rudenko and Qin discussed China-Russia relations as well as “international and regional issues of common concern”.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
However, a statement released by the Russian&nbsp;foreign ministry said&nbsp;Beijing had backed Moscow's efforts to counter the Wagner fighters. "The Chinese side expressed support for the efforts of the leadership of the Russian Federation to stabilise the situation in the country in connection with the events of June 24, and reaffirmed its interest in strengthening the unity and further prosperity of Russia," said the&nbsp;Russian foreign ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement was released following a meeting between&nbsp;China's deputy foreign minister Ma Zhaoxu and&nbsp;Rudenko.</p>

<p>Subsequently,&nbsp;the Chinese foreign ministry released another statement, in&nbsp;Beijing's first official remarks on the Wagner rebellion and said, "As a friendly neighbour and a new era comprehensive strategic cooperative partner, China supports Russia in protecting national stability and achieving development and prosperity," adding that it was&nbsp;Russia's "internal affair".</p>

<h2><strong>Russian diplomat’s visit to Beijing</strong></h2>

<p>While it was not immediately clear when the Russian diplomat arrived in Beijing and if it was before or after the Wagner fighters threatened to storm Moscow or even in response to the apparent rebellion by heavily armed mercenaries on Friday.</p>

<p>China, Russia’s key ally, was&nbsp;yet to publicly comment on the situation that unfolded near Moscow and which Putin said threatened Russia’s very existence, prior to the Russian diplomat's visit. This comes as several countries in the West including the United States said that they would be closely monitoring the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky pointed to the emerging political instability in Moscow, indicating that the armed insurrection by the Wagner mercenary group reveals Russia’s weakness.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, countries like North Korea expressed their full support for Russia in dealing with the mutiny, the country’s state media reported on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a meeting with the Russian ambassador to Pyongyang Alexander Matsegora, the North Korea vice foreign minister Im Chon Il “expressed firm belief that the recent armed rebellion in Russia would be successfully put down,” quoted Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Chinese people about the Wagner mutiny</strong></h2>

<p>“China will support Russia while stressing no interference of its internal affairs,” a prominent Chinese military expert and TV commentator Song Zhongping told Reuters. Notably, as per the news agency, for&nbsp;Song, the rebellion has ended. “Prigozhin realises that it is difficult to achieve the desired results through rebellion.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, many Chinese citizens, as per Reuters, took to social media in support of Putin and wrote, “You can do it, Russia!” However, several reports have said that Putin’s problems will continue as he was forced to accept an amnesty deal and Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s move against the Kremlin has exposed fragility in the Russian president’s rule.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The security measures imposed under Russia’s “anti-terrorism operation” were still in place in Moscow, on Sunday. This comes as the long and ongoing tensions between the Wagner chief and the Russian military’s top brass boiled over when Prigozhin’s forces seized the base in Rostov-on-Don and were reportedly on their way to Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Russian president called the move an act of “treason” and vowed to punish the perpetrators. However, hours later, in a surprise announcement, Prigozhin said his forces could return to base to avoid “spilling Russian blood”. Subsequently, the Kremlin announced that Putin’s former ally would leave for Belarus and Russia would neither prosecute him nor Wagner’s troops.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang met with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko, on Sunday (June 25), in Beijing, where the two countries discussed “international” issues.

Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang met with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko, on Sunday (June 25), in Beijing, where the two countries discussed “international” issues. This comes amid Russia’s mercenary group Wagner group’s mutinous threat to storm the capital city of Moscow, challenging President Vladimir Putin’s decades-long power over the country. What did Russian and Chinese diplomats discuss? In a one-line statement, on their website, the Chinese foreign ministry said Rudenko and Qin discussed China-Russia relations as well as “international and regional issues of common concern”. However, a statement released by the Russian foreign ministry said Beijing had backed Moscow's efforts to counter the Wagner fighters. "The Chinese side expressed support for the efforts of the leadership of the Russian Federation to stabilise the situation in the country in connection with the events of June 24, and reaffirmed its interest in strengthening the unity and further prosperity of Russia," said the Russian foreign ministry. The statement was released following a meeting between China's deputy foreign minister Ma Zhaoxu and Rudenko. Subsequently, the Chinese foreign ministry released another statement, in Beijing's first official remarks on the Wagner rebellion and said, "As a friendly neighbour and a new era comprehensive strategic cooperative partner, China supports Russia in protecting national stability and achieving development and prosperity," adding that it was Russia's "internal affair". Russian diplomat’s visit to Beijing While it was not immediately clear when the Russian diplomat arrived in Beijing and if it was before or after the Wagner fighters threatened to storm Moscow or even in response to the apparent rebellion by heavily armed mercenaries on Friday. China, Russia’s key ally, was yet to publicly comment on the situation that unfolded near Moscow and which Putin said threatened Russia’s very existence, prior to the Russian diplomat's visit. This comes as several countries in the West including the United States said that they would be closely monitoring the situation. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky pointed to the emerging political instability in Moscow, indicating that the armed insurrection by the Wagner mercenary group reveals Russia’s weakness. On the other hand, countries like North Korea expressed their full support for Russia in dealing with the mutiny, the country’s state media reported on Sunday. During a meeting with the Russian ambassador to Pyongyang Alexander Matsegora, the North Korea vice foreign minister Im Chon Il “expressed firm belief that the recent armed rebellion in Russia would be successfully put down,” quoted Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Chinese people about the Wagner mutiny “China will support Russia while stressing no interference of its internal affairs,” a prominent Chinese military expert and TV commentator Song Zhongping told Reuters. Notably, as per the news agency, for Song, the rebellion has ended. “Prigozhin realises that it is difficult to achieve the desired results through rebellion.” Meanwhile, many Chinese citizens, as per Reuters, took to social media in support of Putin and wrote, “You can do it, Russia!” However, several reports have said that Putin’s problems will continue as he was forced to accept an amnesty deal and Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s move against the Kremlin has exposed fragility in the Russian president’s rule. The security measures imposed under Russia’s “anti-terrorism operation” were still in place in Moscow, on Sunday. This comes as the long and ongoing tensions between the Wagner chief and the Russian military’s top brass boiled over when Prigozhin’s forces seized the base in Rostov-on-Don and were reportedly on their way to Moscow. The Russian president called the move an act of “treason” and vowed to punish the perpetrators. However, hours later, in a surprise announcement, Prigozhin said his forces could return to base to avoid “spilling Russian blood”. Subsequently, the Kremlin announced that Putin’s former ally would leave for Belarus and Russia would neither prosecute him nor Wagner’s troops. (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.

Russian diplomat in China discusses ‘international’ issues, Beijing 'supports' Moscow over Wagner mutiny

<p>The armed uprising by Russia's Wagner mercenary group ended as dramatically as it began after a Belarus-brokered deal re-established the status quo amid ongoing war in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here is a blow-by-blow account of what happened in Russia this weekend that shook corridors of power in Moscow and capitals across the world.</p>

<h2><strong>1. Prigozhin declares rebellion against Russian military leadership</strong></h2>

<p>In a series of posts on social media starting Friday, Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin accused the Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu of ordering deadly airstrikes on Wagner fighters and death of his 2500 men.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The evil born by the country's military leadership must be stopped," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>2. Moscow orders Prigozhin's arrest</strong></h2>

<p>Russia's Federal Security Service opened a probe against Prigozhin for armed rebellion. Shortly, armoured vehicles were seen being deployed in Moscow and Rostov-on-Don where Prigozhin warned his fighters were moving towards. Moscow ordered the arrest of Prigozhin.</p>

<h2><strong>3. Wagner forces take Rostov-on-Don</strong></h2>

<p>Wagner forces took Rostov-on-Don with little resistance on Saturday morning. Prigozhin&nbsp; posted a video from the regional military headquarters and claimed that the "Wagnerites" control the city's key military installations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wagner fighters were seen walking around the city with takeout coffee and fast food.</p>

<h2><strong>4. Wagner forces move towards&nbsp;Moscow</strong></h2>

<p>Videos which went viral on social media, showed a column of armoured and personnel vehicles appearing to depart from Rostov in the direction of Moscow. The visuals shook global capitals and amounted to the most testing times for Putin's hold of power in and beyond The Kremlin.</p>

<h2><strong>5. Putin addresses the&nbsp;nation to clam nerves</strong></h2>

<p>President Vladimir Putin, in an address delivered at 9:30 AM (Moscow Time) accused forces loyal to the Wagner group of "treason".</p>

<p>"This is a blow to Russia. To our people and our actions to protect the Fatherland from such a threat will be harsh," Putin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Actions that split our unity," he said, adding that they "are a stab in the back of our country and our people."</p>

<h2><strong>6. Wagner convoy accelerates its move towards Moscow</strong></h2>

<p>Wagner's forces accelerated their movement towards Moscow after Prigozhin was accused of treason and charges filed against him. Wagner convoy entered the Lipetsk region about 250 miles south of Moscow, after pushing through the Vorenzh region.</p>

<h2><strong>7. Lukashenko emerges as surprise peacemaker</strong></h2>

<p>Belarus state media announced that President Alexsandr Lukashenko negotiated an agreement with Wagner's Prigozhin to halt his forces’ advances.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-chief-prigozhin-commands-fighters-to-retreat-from-advance-on-moscow-to-prevent-bloodshed-608369">Wagner chief Prigozhin commands fighters to retreat, halt advance on Moscow to prevent bloodshed</a></strong></p>

<p>Prigozhin then said in an audio message that his forces had come within 125 miles of Moscow and were "turning around" to head back to their training camps.</p>

<h2><strong>8. Prigozhin leaves Rostov for Belarus</strong></h2>

<p>Wagner forces left Rostov-on-Don with visuals on social media showing some residents coming out to show their support.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prigozhin was among those leaving, driving out of the city in a heavily guarded black SUV.</p>

<h2><strong>9. Criminal case against Prigozhin dropped</strong></h2>

<p>The Kremlin announced that the criminal case against the Wagner leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, would be dropped.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;World reacts to Wagner's Call to Mutiny</strong></p>

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<p>Prigozhin will go to Belarus, the Kremlin spokesperson Peskov said, and the fighters who rebelled with him would not be prosecuted by law given their "service at the front."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>10. Wagner fighters to sign contracts of allegiance</strong></h2>

<p>Wagner fighters who did not participate in the mutiny will now sign contracts of allegiance with the Russian Ministry of Defense.</p>

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The armed uprising by Russia's Wagner mercenary group ended as dramatically as it began after a Belarus-brokered deal re-established the status quo amid ongoing war in Ukraine.

The armed uprising by Russia's Wagner mercenary group ended as dramatically as it began after a Belarus-brokered deal re-established the status quo amid ongoing war in Ukraine. Here is a blow-by-blow account of what happened in Russia this weekend that shook corridors of power in Moscow and capitals across the world. 1. Prigozhin declares rebellion against Russian military leadership In a series of posts on social media starting Friday, Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin accused the Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu of ordering deadly airstrikes on Wagner fighters and death of his 2500 men. "The evil born by the country's military leadership must be stopped," he said. 2. Moscow orders Prigozhin's arrest Russia's Federal Security Service opened a probe against Prigozhin for armed rebellion. Shortly, armoured vehicles were seen being deployed in Moscow and Rostov-on-Don where Prigozhin warned his fighters were moving towards. Moscow ordered the arrest of Prigozhin. 3. Wagner forces take Rostov-on-Don Wagner forces took Rostov-on-Don with little resistance on Saturday morning. Prigozhin posted a video from the regional military headquarters and claimed that the "Wagnerites" control the city's key military installations. Wagner fighters were seen walking around the city with takeout coffee and fast food. 4. Wagner forces move towards Moscow Videos which went viral on social media, showed a column of armoured and personnel vehicles appearing to depart from Rostov in the direction of Moscow. The visuals shook global capitals and amounted to the most testing times for Putin's hold of power in and beyond The Kremlin. 5. Putin addresses the nation to clam nerves President Vladimir Putin, in an address delivered at 9:30 AM (Moscow Time) accused forces loyal to the Wagner group of "treason". "This is a blow to Russia. To our people and our actions to protect the Fatherland from such a threat will be harsh," Putin said. "Actions that split our unity," he said, adding that they "are a stab in the back of our country and our people." 6. Wagner convoy accelerates its move towards Moscow Wagner's forces accelerated their movement towards Moscow after Prigozhin was accused of treason and charges filed against him. Wagner convoy entered the Lipetsk region about 250 miles south of Moscow, after pushing through the Vorenzh region. 7. Lukashenko emerges as surprise peacemaker Belarus state media announced that President Alexsandr Lukashenko negotiated an agreement with Wagner's Prigozhin to halt his forces’ advances. Also read | Wagner chief Prigozhin commands fighters to retreat, halt advance on Moscow to prevent bloodshed Prigozhin then said in an audio message that his forces had come within 125 miles of Moscow and were "turning around" to head back to their training camps. 8. Prigozhin leaves Rostov for Belarus Wagner forces left Rostov-on-Don with visuals on social media showing some residents coming out to show their support. Prigozhin was among those leaving, driving out of the city in a heavily guarded black SUV. 9. Criminal case against Prigozhin dropped The Kremlin announced that the criminal case against the Wagner leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, would be dropped. Also watch | World reacts to Wagner's Call to Mutiny × Prigozhin will go to Belarus, the Kremlin spokesperson Peskov said, and the fighters who rebelled with him would not be prosecuted by law given their "service at the front." 10. Wagner fighters to sign contracts of allegiance Wagner fighters who did not participate in the mutiny will now sign contracts of allegiance with the Russian Ministry of Defense. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Wagner rebellion: When Putin’s former favourite chef served a dish of ‘treason’ | 10 points

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group, Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The President of Belarus informed the President of Russia in detail about the results of negotiations with the leadership of PMC Wagner," Lukashenko's press service released a statement saying as quoted by news agency AFP, adding Putin "thanked his Belarusian colleague."</p>

<h2><strong>Wagner chief commands fighters to retreat</strong></h2>

<p>In a dramatic turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary, commanded his fighters to retreat from their advance toward Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation or avert the potential bloodshed.</p>

<p>His move came after Belarus asserted that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march toward Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in the last 30 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before his negotiations with Wagner's chief, he held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.”</p>

<p>The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;had made an emergency television broadcast railing against the “deadly threat to our state”.</p>

<p>Progozhin said that he wanted to avoid shedding Russian blood and would order his troops back to their bases instead.</p>

<p>“Now the moment has come when blood can be shed,” he said. “Therefore, realising all the responsibility for the fact that Russian blood will be shed from one side, we will turn our convoys around and go in the opposite direction to our field camps.”<br />
<br />
The Kremlin announced later on Saturday night that Prigozhin would move to Belarus under a deal to end what was in effect the country’s first armed coup in decades.</p>

<p>Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the criminal case that had been opened against Prigozhin for armed mutiny would be dropped, and the Wagner fighters who had taken part in his “march for justice” would not face any action in recognition of their previous service to Russia.</p>

<p>The Kremlin had earlier been forced to mobilise its forces and prepare defences as Prigozhin sent a convoy of armed troops towards Moscow.</p>

<p>Before Wagner chief's decision to turn back his forces, Ukraine's defence ministry mocked the presence of Russian troops within the country on Saturday, urging them to return home and participate in the ongoing clashes between rebel mercenaries and Russia's military. The ministry's statement questioned the reason behind Russian soldiers still being stationed in challenging conditions instead of supporting their comrades involved in the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the Ukrainian ministry asked, "why Russian soldiers are still sitting in muddy trenches rather than running to the aid of their comrades on both sides of the conflict. That would be far safer than confronting the Ukrainian army."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group, Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group, Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces. "The President of Belarus informed the President of Russia in detail about the results of negotiations with the leadership of PMC Wagner," Lukashenko's press service released a statement saying as quoted by news agency AFP, adding Putin "thanked his Belarusian colleague." Wagner chief commands fighters to retreat In a dramatic turn of events, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary, commanded his fighters to retreat from their advance toward Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation or avert the potential bloodshed. His move came after Belarus asserted that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march toward Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in the last 30 years. Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin. Before his negotiations with Wagner's chief, he held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.” The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement. Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin had made an emergency television broadcast railing against the “deadly threat to our state”. Progozhin said that he wanted to avoid shedding Russian blood and would order his troops back to their bases instead. “Now the moment has come when blood can be shed,” he said. “Therefore, realising all the responsibility for the fact that Russian blood will be shed from one side, we will turn our convoys around and go in the opposite direction to our field camps.” The Kremlin announced later on Saturday night that Prigozhin would move to Belarus under a deal to end what was in effect the country’s first armed coup in decades. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the criminal case that had been opened against Prigozhin for armed mutiny would be dropped, and the Wagner fighters who had taken part in his “march for justice” would not face any action in recognition of their previous service to Russia. The Kremlin had earlier been forced to mobilise its forces and prepare defences as Prigozhin sent a convoy of armed troops towards Moscow. Before Wagner chief's decision to turn back his forces, Ukraine's defence ministry mocked the presence of Russian troops within the country on Saturday, urging them to return home and participate in the ongoing clashes between rebel mercenaries and Russia's military. The ministry's statement questioned the reason behind Russian soldiers still being stationed in challenging conditions instead of supporting their comrades involved in the conflict. In a statement, the Ukrainian ministry asked, "why Russian soldiers are still sitting in muddy trenches rather than running to the aid of their comrades on both sides of the conflict. That would be far safer than confronting the Ukrainian army." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian President Vladimir Putin thanks Belarus leader after Wagner chief announces turnaround

<p>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;</p>

<p>"We were ready to make concessions to the defence ministry, surrender our weapons," Prigozhin said in an audio message released by his spokespeople.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Today, seeing that we have not been broken, they conducted missile strikes at our rear camps," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>There was no need for Russia to invade Ukraine&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Wagner chief also blamed defence minister Sergei Shoigu for starting the war in Ukraine in February last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><strong>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;</strong></p>

<p>"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;</p>

<p>"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;</p>

<p>"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;</p>

<p><strong>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;</strong></p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>"That's why it has become a protracted war," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>He said, "The task was to divide material assets (in Ukraine). There was massive theft in the Donbas, but they wanted more."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russian diplomat stages protest as Australia dismisses lease for Moscow embassy&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Russia 'retreating' from Ukraine attacks&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>"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;</p>

<p>Last year, just a few days after launching the invasion, Russia claimed that it annexed the southern Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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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

<p>The Russian authorities charged Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin with mutiny after he called on his troops to oust the country’s military leadership.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Wagner chief has been accused of "incitement to armed rebellion" after he asked Russians to join his 25,000 Wagner fighters against defence minister Sergei Shoigu and other top military commanders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A threat to Russian President Vladimir Putin's primacy in the Kremlin is yet to be completely ruled out.</p>

<p>Prigozhin, whose Wagner mercenary group&nbsp;helped Russia seize the city of Bakhmut, accused the Russian military of carrying out a strike on its camp, as he threatened Shoigu, declaring:&nbsp;"This scum will be stopped!"</p>

<p>Prigozhin also claimed that his forces had shot down a Russian military aircraft, a claim which is yet to be verified.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>All 'necessary measures' have been taken: Kremlin</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that President Vladimir Putin was informed about the developing situation and that "all necessary measures" were being taken.</p>

<p>According to the Russian state-owned news agency TASS, security was tightened in Moscow at government facilities and key infrastructure with the Russian National Guard and security forces being put on alert.</p>

<p>"Special services and law enforcement agencies, namely the Defense Ministry, Federal Security Service, Interior Ministry and the Russian Guard, constantly report to the president in a round-the-clock mode on the measures taken in the context of the implementation of his earlier instructions," Peskov said in a statement in the early hours of Saturday.</p>

<p><strong><em>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.</em></strong></p>

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The Russian authorities charged Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin with mutiny after he called on his troops to oust the country’s military leadership. The Wagner chief has been accused of "incitement to armed rebellion" after he asked Russians to join his 25,000 Wagner fighters against defence minister Sergei Shoigu and other top military commanders.

The Russian authorities charged Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin with mutiny after he called on his troops to oust the country’s military leadership. The Wagner chief has been accused of "incitement to armed rebellion" after he asked Russians to join his 25,000 Wagner fighters against defence minister Sergei Shoigu and other top military commanders. A threat to Russian President Vladimir Putin's primacy in the Kremlin is yet to be completely ruled out. Prigozhin, whose Wagner mercenary group helped Russia seize the city of Bakhmut, accused the Russian military of carrying out a strike on its camp, as he threatened Shoigu, declaring: "This scum will be stopped!" Prigozhin also claimed that his forces had shot down a Russian military aircraft, a claim which is yet to be verified. All 'necessary measures' have been taken: Kremlin Meanwhile, the Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that President Vladimir Putin was informed about the developing situation and that "all necessary measures" were being taken. According to the Russian state-owned news agency TASS, security was tightened in Moscow at government facilities and key infrastructure with the Russian National Guard and security forces being put on alert. "Special services and law enforcement agencies, namely the Defense Ministry, Federal Security Service, Interior Ministry and the Russian Guard, constantly report to the president in a round-the-clock mode on the measures taken in the context of the implementation of his earlier instructions," Peskov said in a statement in the early hours of Saturday. 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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia orders Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s arrest after his call for mutiny

<p>Warning bells are ringing in Moscow over fears that Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin might attempt at orchestrating a military coup in Russia. The enraged Wagner boss declared Saturday that his men had crossed the border from Ukraine into Russia and he was ready to go “all the way” against the Russian military.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are going onwards and we will go to the end," Yevgeny Prigozhin, 62, said in an audio message.</p>

<p>"We will destroy everything that stands in our way," he added in the most audacious challenge to President Vladimir Putin since the start of the offensive in Ukraine last year.</p>

<h2><strong>Why Kremlin and Wagner chief are at loggerheads?</strong></h2>

<p>A long-running standoff between Kremlin and Russia’s top military brass seems to have come to a head. Earlier, the Wagner boss accused Russia of staging an attack on his men and killing 2,000 of them. "Today, seeing that we have not been broken, they conducted missile strikes at our rear camps," Prigozhin alleged.<br />
<br />
Earlier, he also blamed the Russian defence ministry and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu for starting the war in Ukraine. He 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."</p>

<h2><strong>Kremlin orders Prigozhin’s immediate arrest, prosecution </strong></h2>

<p>As the Wagner boss vows to take revenge on the Russian authorities, the Kremlin has ordered his immediate arrest and prosecution. Russia also accused mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin of calling for an armed mutiny after he alleged, without providing evidence, that the military leadership had claimed the lives of 2,000 of his fighters and vowed to stop what he called its "evil".</p>

<p>Russia’s top commander in Ukraine, Sergey Surovikin, on Friday evening, urged the Wagner fighters to "stop" and to "obey the will" of President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I’m addressing the leadership, commanders and fighters of Wagner. Together with you, we have traveled a difficult and hard path. We fought together, took risks, suffered losses and we won together. We are of the same blood. We are warriors. I urge you to stop, the enemy is only waiting for the internal political situation to worsen in our country," Surovikin was quoted as saying in Russian state media reports.</p>

<h2><strong>Security measures being taken in Moscow</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, security around Moscow and the Kremlin has been beefed up. The military build-up in the area has been increasing for some hours now. Russian President Vladimir Putin is aware of the situation that is unfolding around Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of the private military company Wagner, and the necessary measures are being taken, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, as per news agency TASS.</p>

<h2><strong>Reaction from the US</strong></h2>

<p>US National Security Council spokesperson Adam Hodge on Friday said that the US was monitoring the developing situation involving the Wagner fighters and Russia.&nbsp;</p>

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Warning bells are ringing in Moscow over fears that Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin might attempt at orchestrating a military coup in Russia. The enraged Wagner boss declared Saturday that his men had crossed the border from Ukraine into Russia and he was ready to go “all the way” against the Russian military.

Warning bells are ringing in Moscow over fears that Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin might attempt at orchestrating a military coup in Russia. The enraged Wagner boss declared Saturday that his men had crossed the border from Ukraine into Russia and he was ready to go “all the way” against the Russian military. "We are going onwards and we will go to the end," Yevgeny Prigozhin, 62, said in an audio message. "We will destroy everything that stands in our way," he added in the most audacious challenge to President Vladimir Putin since the start of the offensive in Ukraine last year. Why Kremlin and Wagner chief are at loggerheads? A long-running standoff between Kremlin and Russia’s top military brass seems to have come to a head. Earlier, the Wagner boss accused Russia of staging an attack on his men and killing 2,000 of them. "Today, seeing that we have not been broken, they conducted missile strikes at our rear camps," Prigozhin alleged. Earlier, he also blamed the Russian defence ministry and Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu for starting the war in Ukraine. He 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." Kremlin orders Prigozhin’s immediate arrest, prosecution As the Wagner boss vows to take revenge on the Russian authorities, the Kremlin has ordered his immediate arrest and prosecution. Russia also accused mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin of calling for an armed mutiny after he alleged, without providing evidence, that the military leadership had claimed the lives of 2,000 of his fighters and vowed to stop what he called its "evil". Russia’s top commander in Ukraine, Sergey Surovikin, on Friday evening, urged the Wagner fighters to "stop" and to "obey the will" of President Vladimir Putin. "I’m addressing the leadership, commanders and fighters of Wagner. Together with you, we have traveled a difficult and hard path. We fought together, took risks, suffered losses and we won together. We are of the same blood. We are warriors. I urge you to stop, the enemy is only waiting for the internal political situation to worsen in our country," Surovikin was quoted as saying in Russian state media reports. Security measures being taken in Moscow Meanwhile, security around Moscow and the Kremlin has been beefed up. The military build-up in the area has been increasing for some hours now. Russian President Vladimir Putin is aware of the situation that is unfolding around Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of the private military company Wagner, and the necessary measures are being taken, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, as per news agency TASS. Reaction from the US US National Security Council spokesperson Adam Hodge on Friday said that the US was monitoring the developing situation involving the Wagner fighters and Russia. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Warning bells sounded in Moscow as Wagner’s men go all out against Russian military

<p>A fuel depot in Voronezh, a city in southern Russia, caught fire on Saturday, as the region is witnessing a mutiny by Wagner mercenaries. The local governor, Alexander Gusev, reported the incident on Telegram, stating that efforts were underway to extinguish the blaze. He mentioned the presence of approximately 100 firefighters and more than 30 vehicles at the scene. According to initial reports, there have been no reported casualties.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Better view of the RusAF Ka-52 just after striking the fuel depot in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Voronezh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Voronezh</a>, Russia.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OSINT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OSINT</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineRussiaWar%EF%B8%8F?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineRussiaWar️</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UkraineWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UkraineWar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ukraine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ukraine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Counteroffensive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Counteroffensive</a> <a href="https://t.co/DmohiWy9q2">pic.twitter.com/DmohiWy9q2</a></p>
— OSINT (Uri) 🇺🇦 (@UKikaski) <a href="https://twitter.com/UKikaski/status/1672562124634177536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The cause of the fire has not been specified by Gusev. However, some media outlets have shared a video showing a military helicopter in the vicinity just before an explosion occurred.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia targets rebel convoy&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to reports, Russian military helicopters engaged in an attack on Saturday afternoon, targeting a convoy of rebel mercenaries who had made significant progress towards Moscow after seizing a southern city overnight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/archaeologists-unearth-4000-year-old-stonehenge-burial-ground-in-the-netherlands-608203">Archaeologists unearth 4,000-year-old ‘Stonehenge’ burial ground in the Netherlands</a></p>

<p>In response, President Vladimir Putin pledged to suppress the armed mutiny, likening it to Russia's civil war from a century ago.&nbsp;Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin said his fighters captured the army HQ in Russia's Rostov-on-Don "without firing a single shot".</p>

<p><strong>Watch | 'Putin's chef' vs Defence Minister: Where has Wagner operated?</strong></p>

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<p>He also claimed that the forces have the backing of local Russians.&nbsp;"Why does the country support us? Because we went on a march of justice," Prigozhin said in an audio message on Telegram and added, "We got to Rostov. Without a single shot we captured the building of the (army) HQ."</p>

<p>According to Putin's spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, the Russian President continues to fulfill his regular responsibilities within the Kremlin. This statement comes in response to the Wagner mercenary group's declaration of overthrowing the country's senior military leadership.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The president is working in the Kremlin," Peskov told the state-run RIA Novosti news agency, after Wagner units claimed to have captured military installations in southern Russia.</p>

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A fuel depot in Voronezh, a city in southern Russia, caught fire on Saturday, as the region is witnessing a mutiny by Wagner mercenaries. The local governor, Alexander Gusev, reported the incident on Telegram, stating that efforts were underway to extinguish the blaze.

A fuel depot in Voronezh, a city in southern Russia, caught fire on Saturday, as the region is witnessing a mutiny by Wagner mercenaries. The local governor, Alexander Gusev, reported the incident on Telegram, stating that efforts were underway to extinguish the blaze. He mentioned the presence of approximately 100 firefighters and more than 30 vehicles at the scene. According to initial reports, there have been no reported casualties. Better view of the RusAF Ka-52 just after striking the fuel depot in #Voronezh, Russia.#OSINT #UkraineRussiaWar️ #UkraineWar #Ukraine #Counteroffensive pic.twitter.com/DmohiWy9q2 — OSINT (Uri) 🇺🇦 (@UKikaski) June 24, 2023 × The cause of the fire has not been specified by Gusev. However, some media outlets have shared a video showing a military helicopter in the vicinity just before an explosion occurred. Russia targets rebel convoy According to reports, Russian military helicopters engaged in an attack on Saturday afternoon, targeting a convoy of rebel mercenaries who had made significant progress towards Moscow after seizing a southern city overnight. Also Read | Archaeologists unearth 4,000-year-old ‘Stonehenge’ burial ground in the Netherlands In response, President Vladimir Putin pledged to suppress the armed mutiny, likening it to Russia's civil war from a century ago. Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin said his fighters captured the army HQ in Russia's Rostov-on-Don "without firing a single shot". Watch | 'Putin's chef' vs Defence Minister: Where has Wagner operated? × He also claimed that the forces have the backing of local Russians. "Why does the country support us? Because we went on a march of justice," Prigozhin said in an audio message on Telegram and added, "We got to Rostov. Without a single shot we captured the building of the (army) HQ." According to Putin's spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, the Russian President continues to fulfill his regular responsibilities within the Kremlin. This statement comes in response to the Wagner mercenary group's declaration of overthrowing the country's senior military leadership. "The president is working in the Kremlin," Peskov told the state-run RIA Novosti news agency, after Wagner units claimed to have captured military installations in southern Russia. 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. ×

Fuel depot catches fire in Russia’s Voronezh as Wagner mutiny continues

<p lang="en-US">Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the Russians on Saturday, said that necessary orders have been given to the troops to neutralise those who have orchestrated the armed rebellion.<br />
<br />
The president addressed the nation as Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's armed forces declared to have gained control over the Russian city of RostoV and his army continued to 'march' towards the capital to oust the military leadership of the country.</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Putin appeals for 'unity', says won't allow civil war</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">"I appeal to the citizens of Russia, to the personnel of the Armed Forces, law enforcement agencies and special services, to the soldiers and commanders who are now fighting in their combat positions, repelling enemy attacks – they are doing it heroically. I know. Today, I once again spoke with the commanders of all directions. I also appeal to those who, by deceit or threats, were dragged into a criminal adventure, pushed onto the path of a grave crime – an armed rebellion,” Putin said, in his address.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-issues-arrest-warrant-against-wagner-chief-after-his-call-for-mutiny-608089">Russia orders Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s arrest after his call for mutiny</a></p>

<p lang="en-US">"This is a battle when the fate of our people is being decided, it requires the unity of all forces, unity, consolidation and responsibility, when everything that weakens us, any strife that our external enemies can use and use to undermine us from the inside must be thrown aside".</p>

<h2 lang="en-US"><strong>Putin calls Wagner chief's actions 'stab in the back', 'betrayal'</strong></h2>

<p lang="en-US">"The actions that split our unity are, in fact, apostasy from our people, from our comrades-in-arms who are now fighting at the front. This is a stab in the back to our country and our people. We will protect both our people and our statehood from any threats, including from internal betrayal, and what we are faced with is precisely betrayal&nbsp;to the cause for which, side by side with our other units and subunits, the fighters and commanders of the Wagner group fought and died,” the Russian president said.<br />
<br />
"I believe that we will save and defend what is dear and sacred to us. Together with our homeland, we will overcome any trials, we will become even stronger. Everyone who deliberately took the path of betrayal, who prepared an armed rebellion, took the path of rebellion and terrorist methods will suffer inevitable punishment, will answer before the law and before our people,” he added.<br />
<br />
The Wagner chief is facing accusations of "incitement to armed rebellion" as he asked Russians to support his 25,000 Wagner fighters against Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. Prigozhin has been charged with armed mutiny and can face up to 20 years of imprisonment, as per TASS.</p>

<p lang="en-US"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Wagner chief accuses Russia military of bombing its forces</strong></p>

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<p lang="en-US">"Amid the seriousness of the situation and the threat of escalation of confrontation in the Russian Federation the FSB has opened a criminal case into the fact of a call for an armed rebellion on the part of Yevgeny Prigozhin," the Federal Security Service’s Public Relations Centre said.<br />
<br />
Russia, which has been engaging with Ukraine in one of the longest wars, is on the brink of civil war and feared a coup as it faced a rebellion from the Wagner group. Amid the escalating situation, an "anti-terrorist operation regime" has been declared in Moscow and all public events have been cancelled.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the Russians on Saturday, said that necessary orders have been given to the troops to neutralise those who have orchestrated the armed rebellion.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the Russians on Saturday, said that necessary orders have been given to the troops to neutralise those who have orchestrated the armed rebellion. The president addressed the nation as Wagner mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin's armed forces declared to have gained control over the Russian city of RostoV and his army continued to 'march' towards the capital to oust the military leadership of the country. Putin appeals for 'unity', says won't allow civil war "I appeal to the citizens of Russia, to the personnel of the Armed Forces, law enforcement agencies and special services, to the soldiers and commanders who are now fighting in their combat positions, repelling enemy attacks – they are doing it heroically. I know. Today, I once again spoke with the commanders of all directions. I also appeal to those who, by deceit or threats, were dragged into a criminal adventure, pushed onto the path of a grave crime – an armed rebellion,” Putin said, in his address. ALSO READ | Russia orders Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin’s arrest after his call for mutiny "This is a battle when the fate of our people is being decided, it requires the unity of all forces, unity, consolidation and responsibility, when everything that weakens us, any strife that our external enemies can use and use to undermine us from the inside must be thrown aside". Putin calls Wagner chief's actions 'stab in the back', 'betrayal' "The actions that split our unity are, in fact, apostasy from our people, from our comrades-in-arms who are now fighting at the front. This is a stab in the back to our country and our people. We will protect both our people and our statehood from any threats, including from internal betrayal, and what we are faced with is precisely betrayal to the cause for which, side by side with our other units and subunits, the fighters and commanders of the Wagner group fought and died,” the Russian president said. "I believe that we will save and defend what is dear and sacred to us. Together with our homeland, we will overcome any trials, we will become even stronger. Everyone who deliberately took the path of betrayal, who prepared an armed rebellion, took the path of rebellion and terrorist methods will suffer inevitable punishment, will answer before the law and before our people,” he added. The Wagner chief is facing accusations of "incitement to armed rebellion" as he asked Russians to support his 25,000 Wagner fighters against Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. Prigozhin has been charged with armed mutiny and can face up to 20 years of imprisonment, as per TASS. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Wagner chief accuses Russia military of bombing its forces "Amid the seriousness of the situation and the threat of escalation of confrontation in the Russian Federation the FSB has opened a criminal case into the fact of a call for an armed rebellion on the part of Yevgeny Prigozhin," the Federal Security Service’s Public Relations Centre said. Russia, which has been engaging with Ukraine in one of the longest wars, is on the brink of civil war and feared a coup as it faced a rebellion from the Wagner group. Amid the escalating situation, an "anti-terrorist operation regime" has been declared in Moscow and all public events have been cancelled. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'This is treason': Putin appeals for 'unity', calls Wagner mutiny 'deadly threat' to Russia

<p>In what might be the first gains since Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gave the strongest indication yet that Kyiv’s long-awaited pushback of Russian troops has begun,&nbsp;Kyiv announced on Sunday that Ukrainian forces had retaken three villages in the eastern region of Donetsk. Ukraine, on Monday (June 12) also claimed that it&nbsp;recaptured a fourth village in a cluster of settlements in the country's&nbsp;southeast region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The settlements of Blahodatne and Makarivka were liberated,” Ukraine's deputy defence minister Hanna&nbsp;Maliar&nbsp;said in an&nbsp;update on Telegram.</p>

<p>A third village,&nbsp;Neskuchne, was also claimed by a Ukrainian army brigade on Sunday, though Kyiv defence leaders are yet to comment on the development. Russian military bloggers have&nbsp;made unofficial reports&nbsp;that Neskuchne has been recaptured by Ukraine's troops, reports CNN.<br />
<br />
Video footage posted online&nbsp;showed soldiers holding up the Ukrainian flag in&nbsp;Donetsk region's Storozheve with the defence minister thanking&nbsp;the 35th Separate Brigade of Marines for regaining control of the village.</p>

<p>This comes after Zelensky said that the “relevant counter-offensive defensive actions are taking place in Ukraine,” on Saturday. “Neskuchne of the Donetsk region is under the Ukrainian flag again,” said the state border guard, along with a video of Ukrainian troops announcing the takeover.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian soldiers were also seen shouting Kyiv’s traditional battle cries such as “Glory to Ukraine!” and reportedly derided Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-repel-attack-by-ukraine-on-black-sea-warship-603188">Russia claims to repel attack by Ukraine on Black Sea warship</a></strong></p>

<p>This was hours after Ukrainian Land Forces announced that soldiers of the 68th Separate Hunting Brigade had retaken the village of Blahodatne in the Donetsk region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-citizen-arrested-in-russia-over-drug-dealing-charges-603227">US citizen arrested in Russia over drug dealing charges</a></strong></p>

<p>The video showed soldiers hoisting a Ukrainian flag over a destroyed building. The Ukrainian government also has released a video for the third consecutive weekend that subtly acknowledges, without directly mentioning, the summer counteroffensive against Russia. &nbsp;<br />
<br />
The most recent video features Kyrylo Budanov, the head of military intelligence, sitting silently at his desk, gazing into the camera and after 20 seconds or so the words “More to Come” appear, which is followed by the slogan, “Plans Love Silence.” The recurring theme seems to point to the Kyiv government’s efforts symbolising the importance of maintaining silence.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia blows up another dam</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine has accused Russia of blowing&nbsp;up another dam in the Zaporizhzhia region, following the destruction of the major Nova Kakhovka on Monday, which caused widespread flooding.</p>

<p>Ukraine says the dam was blown up by Russian forces, who have controlled it since February 2022.</p>

<p>Valeriy Shershen, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian military, said Moscow's forces had chosen to blow up a second dam near the village of Novodarivka, which "led to the flooding on both banks of the Mokri Yaly river", Kyiv Independent reported.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russia, Ukraine prisoner&nbsp;swap</strong></h2>

<p>The Russian defence ministry, on Telegram, announced 94 Russian servicemen “who were in mortal danger” are being released after negotiations and will be taken to medical institutes for examination.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraines-counter-offensive-against-russia-under-way-603074">Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia under way</a></strong></p>

<p>Head of Ukraine’s presidential administration, Andriy Yermak, said 95 Ukrainian troops had been returned by the Russians. The Ukrainian official also said that some of them were injured and among those who returned were also members of the national guard and border guards.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Is Russia taking control of Wagner?</strong></h2>

<p>Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of Russia's Wagner mercenary, on Sunday, said his fighters would not sign any contract with the country’s Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-says-it-repels-many-attacks-by-ukraine-ukraine-claims-gains-in-bakhmut-603084">Russia says it repels many attacks by Ukraine; Ukraine claims gains in Bakhmut</a></strong></p>

<p>This comes after the Russian defence ministry on Saturday said Shoigu had ordered all “volunteer detachments” to sign contracts with his ministry by the end of the month. According to the defence ministry, it is in a bid to increase the effectiveness of the Russian army.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia underway</h2>

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<p>While no particular group or forces were mentioned by the ministry, the move is being seen as an attempt to take direct control of Wagner. However, Prigozhin, in response to a request for comment on the matter said, “Wagner will not sign any contracts with Shoigu,” adding that the order did not apply to Wagner.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-dam-collapse-zelensky-says-world-shamefully-indifferent-to-disaster-603032">Ukraine dam collapse: Zelensky says world ‘shamefully indifferent’ to disaster</a></strong></p>

<p>This comes as the Wagner chief has repeatedly criticised the Russian military brass for incompetence and deliberately undersupplying Wagner fighters in Ukraine. “Shoigu cannot properly manage military formation,” said Wagner chief.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also went on to say that his group is well integrated with the Russian military and its effectiveness would be affected if they are required to report to the defence minister.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia said it hit Leopard tanks, Bradley vehicles and Ukrainian fighter je</strong>t</h2>

<p>Earlier, on Sunday, Russia claimed that it destroyed at least seven German-made Leopard tanks and five United States-made Bradley vehicles in the past 48 hours while repelling Ukrainian attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-opposition-failing-to-unite-against-putin-heres-why-603145">Russian opposition leaders meet in Brussels, fail to unite against Putin. Here's why</a></strong></p>

<p>It also later claimed that it had successfully taken down a Ukrainian Su-25 fighter jet in the Kherson region. Russian forces have also repelled three Ukrainian attacks in the Zaporizhzhia region, the ministry said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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<em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>

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In what might be the first gains since Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gave the strongest indication yet that Kyiv’s long-awaited pushback of Russian troops has begun, Kyiv announced on Sunday that Ukrainian forces had retaken three villages in the eastern region of Donetsk.

In what might be the first gains since Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky gave the strongest indication yet that Kyiv’s long-awaited pushback of Russian troops has begun, Kyiv announced on Sunday that Ukrainian forces had retaken three villages in the eastern region of Donetsk. Ukraine, on Monday (June 12) also claimed that it recaptured a fourth village in a cluster of settlements in the country's southeast region. “The settlements of Blahodatne and Makarivka were liberated,” Ukraine's deputy defence minister Hanna Maliar said in an update on Telegram. A third village, Neskuchne, was also claimed by a Ukrainian army brigade on Sunday, though Kyiv defence leaders are yet to comment on the development. Russian military bloggers have made unofficial reports that Neskuchne has been recaptured by Ukraine's troops, reports CNN. Video footage posted online showed soldiers holding up the Ukrainian flag in Donetsk region's Storozheve with the defence minister thanking the 35th Separate Brigade of Marines for regaining control of the village. This comes after Zelensky said that the “relevant counter-offensive defensive actions are taking place in Ukraine,” on Saturday. “Neskuchne of the Donetsk region is under the Ukrainian flag again,” said the state border guard, along with a video of Ukrainian troops announcing the takeover. Ukrainian soldiers were also seen shouting Kyiv’s traditional battle cries such as “Glory to Ukraine!” and reportedly derided Russian President Vladimir Putin. ALSO READ | Russia claims to repel attack by Ukraine on Black Sea warship This was hours after Ukrainian Land Forces announced that soldiers of the 68th Separate Hunting Brigade had retaken the village of Blahodatne in the Donetsk region. ALSO READ | US citizen arrested in Russia over drug dealing charges The video showed soldiers hoisting a Ukrainian flag over a destroyed building. The Ukrainian government also has released a video for the third consecutive weekend that subtly acknowledges, without directly mentioning, the summer counteroffensive against Russia. The most recent video features Kyrylo Budanov, the head of military intelligence, sitting silently at his desk, gazing into the camera and after 20 seconds or so the words “More to Come” appear, which is followed by the slogan, “Plans Love Silence.” The recurring theme seems to point to the Kyiv government’s efforts symbolising the importance of maintaining silence. Russia blows up another dam Ukraine has accused Russia of blowing up another dam in the Zaporizhzhia region, following the destruction of the major Nova Kakhovka on Monday, which caused widespread flooding. Ukraine says the dam was blown up by Russian forces, who have controlled it since February 2022. Valeriy Shershen, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian military, said Moscow's forces had chosen to blow up a second dam near the village of Novodarivka, which "led to the flooding on both banks of the Mokri Yaly river", Kyiv Independent reported. Russia, Ukraine prisoner swap The Russian defence ministry, on Telegram, announced 94 Russian servicemen “who were in mortal danger” are being released after negotiations and will be taken to medical institutes for examination. ALSO WATCH | Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia under way Head of Ukraine’s presidential administration, Andriy Yermak, said 95 Ukrainian troops had been returned by the Russians. The Ukrainian official also said that some of them were injured and among those who returned were also members of the national guard and border guards. Is Russia taking control of Wagner? Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of Russia's Wagner mercenary, on Sunday, said his fighters would not sign any contract with the country’s Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. ALSO WATCH | Russia says it repels many attacks by Ukraine; Ukraine claims gains in Bakhmut This comes after the Russian defence ministry on Saturday said Shoigu had ordered all “volunteer detachments” to sign contracts with his ministry by the end of the month. According to the defence ministry, it is in a bid to increase the effectiveness of the Russian army. Ukraine's counter-offensive against Russia underway While no particular group or forces were mentioned by the ministry, the move is being seen as an attempt to take direct control of Wagner. However, Prigozhin, in response to a request for comment on the matter said, “Wagner will not sign any contracts with Shoigu,” adding that the order did not apply to Wagner. ALSO READ | Ukraine dam collapse: Zelensky says world ‘shamefully indifferent’ to disaster This comes as the Wagner chief has repeatedly criticised the Russian military brass for incompetence and deliberately undersupplying Wagner fighters in Ukraine. “Shoigu cannot properly manage military formation,” said Wagner chief. He also went on to say that his group is well integrated with the Russian military and its effectiveness would be affected if they are required to report to the defence minister. Russia said it hit Leopard tanks, Bradley vehicles and Ukrainian fighter jet Earlier, on Sunday, Russia claimed that it destroyed at least seven German-made Leopard tanks and five United States-made Bradley vehicles in the past 48 hours while repelling Ukrainian attacks. ALSO READ | Russian opposition leaders meet in Brussels, fail to unite against Putin. Here's why It also later claimed that it had successfully taken down a Ukrainian Su-25 fighter jet in the Kherson region. Russian forces have also repelled three Ukrainian attacks in the Zaporizhzhia region, the ministry said. (With inputs from agencies) 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. 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.

Kyiv recaptures four villages in Donetsk as Ukraine's counter-offensive begins

<p>The head of the Wagner mercenary group, on Saturday (June 3), said that his fighters would be ready to defend the Russian border region of Belgorod which has recently witnessed a number of attacks. This comes as the group’s founder and chief Yevgeny Prigozhin has criticised the Russian military brass for not being able to defend Belgorod.</p>

<h2><strong>What did Prigozhin say about Belgorod?</strong></h2>

<p>The Wagner chief said that he would not wait for an “invitation” to deploy his fighters in the Russian border region. “If the defence ministry, in the near future, does not stop what is happening in the Belgorod region…then of course we will come to defend Russian land,” said&nbsp;Prigozhin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “The civilian population is dying in Belgorod.”&nbsp;So far, thousands have been evacuated from southwestern Belgorod days after an incursion from Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prigozhin, who founded the Wagner mercenary group and&nbsp;whose fighters&nbsp;have spearheaded battles in Ukraine, particularly in Bakhmut has&nbsp;gained widespread notoriety since the war in Ukraine began over a year ago.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is happening in Belgorod?</strong></h2>

<p>On Saturday,&nbsp;Belgorod governor Vyacheslav Gladkov claimed that an unprecedented Ukrainian shelling killed two people in the border region. “Since this morning, the district of Shebekino has been under shelling of the Ukrainian armed forces,” said the Russian official.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Among those killed were two women, one “elderly woman” was killed in the village of Novaya Tavolzhanka while the other succumbed to her wounds in the village of Bezlyudovka. Last week, Russia claimed that it repelled an attempted incursion along its border with Ukraine from what it calls pro-Ukrainian militants.</p>

<p>According to Gladkov, the region has been hit by 500 attacks on Friday which included artillery and rocket fire and five people lost their lives during these attacks.</p>

<p>The reported incursion with a suspected drone attack and heavy shelling also prompted a partial evacuation of civilians from the area. The Russian defence ministry said that it repelled three cross-border attacks on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was said to be a joint effort by the Russian army units, border guards and units of the Federal Security Service which repelled the attack which involved five tanks and four armoured vehicles and some 70 fighters who&nbsp;tried to enter the entire border near Novaya Tavolzhanka and Shebekino.</p>

<p>The defence ministry claimed over 50 Ukrainian fighters were killed and four armoured vehicles were destroyed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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The head of the Wagner mercenary group, on Saturday (June 3), said that his fighters would be ready to defend the Russian border region of Belgorod which has recently witnessed a number of attacks.

The head of the Wagner mercenary group, on Saturday (June 3), said that his fighters would be ready to defend the Russian border region of Belgorod which has recently witnessed a number of attacks. This comes as the group’s founder and chief Yevgeny Prigozhin has criticised the Russian military brass for not being able to defend Belgorod. What did Prigozhin say about Belgorod? The Wagner chief said that he would not wait for an “invitation” to deploy his fighters in the Russian border region. “If the defence ministry, in the near future, does not stop what is happening in the Belgorod region…then of course we will come to defend Russian land,” said Prigozhin. He added, “The civilian population is dying in Belgorod.” So far, thousands have been evacuated from southwestern Belgorod days after an incursion from Ukraine. Prigozhin, who founded the Wagner mercenary group and whose fighters have spearheaded battles in Ukraine, particularly in Bakhmut has gained widespread notoriety since the war in Ukraine began over a year ago. What is happening in Belgorod? On Saturday, Belgorod governor Vyacheslav Gladkov claimed that an unprecedented Ukrainian shelling killed two people in the border region. “Since this morning, the district of Shebekino has been under shelling of the Ukrainian armed forces,” said the Russian official. Among those killed were two women, one “elderly woman” was killed in the village of Novaya Tavolzhanka while the other succumbed to her wounds in the village of Bezlyudovka. Last week, Russia claimed that it repelled an attempted incursion along its border with Ukraine from what it calls pro-Ukrainian militants. According to Gladkov, the region has been hit by 500 attacks on Friday which included artillery and rocket fire and five people lost their lives during these attacks. The reported incursion with a suspected drone attack and heavy shelling also prompted a partial evacuation of civilians from the area. The Russian defence ministry said that it repelled three cross-border attacks on Thursday. It was said to be a joint effort by the Russian army units, border guards and units of the Federal Security Service which repelled the attack which involved five tanks and four armoured vehicles and some 70 fighters who tried to enter the entire border near Novaya Tavolzhanka and Shebekino. The defence ministry claimed over 50 Ukrainian fighters were killed and four armoured vehicles were destroyed. 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 mercenary group ready to defend Russian border region of Belgorod: Yevgeny Prigozhin

<p>The head of Russia’s Wagner mercenary group, which has been spearheading Moscow’s fight in the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, on Thursday (May 25) said his fighters have begun transferring their positions to the Russian army.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The change was seemingly confirmed by Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar who said that Wagner fighters have been replaced by regular soldiers in the outskirts of Bakhmut.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Wagner’s withdrawal from Bakhmut</strong></h2>

<p>The announcement was made by the Wagner group’s founder Yevgeny Prigozhin in a video published on Thursday. “We are withdrawing the units from Bakhmut. From today at five in the morning, May 25 until June 1, most of the units will rebase to camps in the rear,” said the Wagner chief.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
He added, “We are handing over positions to the military, ammunition and everything. We pull back, we rest, we prepare and then we will get new tasks.” The video was published on messaging app Telegram where Prigozhin was seen dressed in tactical body armour and a military helmet standing beside a war-damaged residential block.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Wagner chief, who has repeatedly criticised Russian defence officials, as per media reports, also said that his fighters would return to Bakhmut if the military is unable to manage the situation in the Ukrainian city which has witnessed some of the bloodiest battles amid the ongoing conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine partially confirms the switch</strong></h2>

<p>The Ukrainian deputy defence minister also took to Telegram and has at least partially confirmed the announcement by the Wagner chief. “In Bakhmut’s outskirts, the enemy has replaced Wagner units with regular army forces. Inside the city itself, Wagner fighters remain,” said Maliar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She also said that Russia is also reinforcing its positions on the flanks of Bakhmut and continued shelling to stop Ukrainian forces from advancing to the north and south of the city. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Ukraine’s eastern military command, Serhiy Cherevatyi, said that Kyiv has noted a drop in the number of Russian attacks in the past three days or so.</p>

<p>There have been two military engagements in the last 24 hours, said the military spokesperson, adding that the shelling has continued. “We can definitely note a reduction in attacks and possibly this is linked to their regrouping. It is clear that we have inflicted heavy losses and they need this (to regroup),” said Cherevatyi, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>

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The head of Russia’s Wagner mercenary group, which has been spearheading Moscow’s fight in the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, on Thursday (May 25) said his fighters have begun transferring their positions to the Russian army.

The head of Russia’s Wagner mercenary group, which has been spearheading Moscow’s fight in the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, on Thursday (May 25) said his fighters have begun transferring their positions to the Russian army. The change was seemingly confirmed by Deputy Defence Minister Hanna Maliar who said that Wagner fighters have been replaced by regular soldiers in the outskirts of Bakhmut. Wagner’s withdrawal from Bakhmut The announcement was made by the Wagner group’s founder Yevgeny Prigozhin in a video published on Thursday. “We are withdrawing the units from Bakhmut. From today at five in the morning, May 25 until June 1, most of the units will rebase to camps in the rear,” said the Wagner chief. He added, “We are handing over positions to the military, ammunition and everything. We pull back, we rest, we prepare and then we will get new tasks.” The video was published on messaging app Telegram where Prigozhin was seen dressed in tactical body armour and a military helmet standing beside a war-damaged residential block. The Wagner chief, who has repeatedly criticised Russian defence officials, as per media reports, also said that his fighters would return to Bakhmut if the military is unable to manage the situation in the Ukrainian city which has witnessed some of the bloodiest battles amid the ongoing conflict. Ukraine partially confirms the switch The Ukrainian deputy defence minister also took to Telegram and has at least partially confirmed the announcement by the Wagner chief. “In Bakhmut’s outskirts, the enemy has replaced Wagner units with regular army forces. Inside the city itself, Wagner fighters remain,” said Maliar. She also said that Russia is also reinforcing its positions on the flanks of Bakhmut and continued shelling to stop Ukrainian forces from advancing to the north and south of the city. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Ukraine’s eastern military command, Serhiy Cherevatyi, said that Kyiv has noted a drop in the number of Russian attacks in the past three days or so. There have been two military engagements in the last 24 hours, said the military spokesperson, adding that the shelling has continued. “We can definitely note a reduction in attacks and possibly this is linked to their regrouping. It is clear that we have inflicted heavy losses and they need this (to regroup),” said Cherevatyi, as quoted by Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) 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. 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.

Russia’s Wagner withdraws fighters from Bakhmut, military to take over; Ukraine partially confirms

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<p>Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin warned on Wednesday (May 24) that Russia could face a revolution similar to that of 1917 and lose the war in Ukraine unless the elite got serious about fighting the war. In an interview posted on his Telegram channel, Prigozhin said that his political outlook was dominated "by the love of the motherland" and serving Russian President Vladimir Putin, but cautioned that Moscow was in danger of turmoil, the news agency Reuters reported.</p>

<p>"Now for political credo - I love my motherland, I serve Putin, Shoigu is useless and we will fight on. That's it," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prigozhin added that there was a so-called optimistic view that the West would get tired of war and China would broker a peace deal, but he did not believe this. Instead, Ukraine was preparing a counteroffensive aimed at pushing Russian troops back to its borders before 2014, he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If ordinary Russians continued getting their children back in zinc coffins while the children of the elite "shook their arses" in the sun, he said, Russia would face turmoil along the lines of the 1917 revolutions that ushered in a civil war.</p>

<p>"This divide can end as in 1917 with a revolution," the Wagner chief said, adding "First the soldiers will stand up, and after that - their loved ones will rise up."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>20,000 Wagner fighters killed in Bakhmut: Prigozhin</strong></h2>

<p>Prigozhin also said that 20,000 fighters of the Wagner group were killed in the battle for Bakhmut in Ukraine. "During the operation, I recruited 50,000 prisoners, of whom about 20 per cent died. This is exactly the same number as those who came to us under contract, meaning not from prison. Another 20 per cent were wounded and their wounds stop them from performing combat activities for three months or more," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Bakhmut, Prigozhin said, Ukraine suffered casualties of 50,000-70,000 wounded and 50,000 dead. He also cautioned that Ukrainian forces would try to encircle Bakhmut and attack Crimea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further went on to criticise the Russian military leadership and Moscow's post-Soviet policy towards Ukraine.&nbsp;<br />
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Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin warned on Wednesday (May 24) that Russia could face a revolution similar to that of 1917 and lose the war in Ukraine unless the elite got serious about fighting the war.

Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin warned on Wednesday (May 24) that Russia could face a revolution similar to that of 1917 and lose the war in Ukraine unless the elite got serious about fighting the war. In an interview posted on his Telegram channel, Prigozhin said that his political outlook was dominated "by the love of the motherland" and serving Russian President Vladimir Putin, but cautioned that Moscow was in danger of turmoil, the news agency Reuters reported. "Now for political credo - I love my motherland, I serve Putin, Shoigu is useless and we will fight on. That's it," he said. Prigozhin added that there was a so-called optimistic view that the West would get tired of war and China would broker a peace deal, but he did not believe this. Instead, Ukraine was preparing a counteroffensive aimed at pushing Russian troops back to its borders before 2014, he said. If ordinary Russians continued getting their children back in zinc coffins while the children of the elite "shook their arses" in the sun, he said, Russia would face turmoil along the lines of the 1917 revolutions that ushered in a civil war. "This divide can end as in 1917 with a revolution," the Wagner chief said, adding "First the soldiers will stand up, and after that - their loved ones will rise up." 20,000 Wagner fighters killed in Bakhmut: Prigozhin Prigozhin also said that 20,000 fighters of the Wagner group were killed in the battle for Bakhmut in Ukraine. "During the operation, I recruited 50,000 prisoners, of whom about 20 per cent died. This is exactly the same number as those who came to us under contract, meaning not from prison. Another 20 per cent were wounded and their wounds stop them from performing combat activities for three months or more," he added. In Bakhmut, Prigozhin said, Ukraine suffered casualties of 50,000-70,000 wounded and 50,000 dead. He also cautioned that Ukrainian forces would try to encircle Bakhmut and attack Crimea. He further went on to criticise the Russian military leadership and Moscow's post-Soviet policy towards Ukraine. 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.

Ukraine war: Wagner Group chief warns Russia could face another revolution unless...

<p>Russia's Wagner group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin said that Russian fighters had completed the capture of Bakhmut, a claim which was promptly rejected by Kyiv.</p>

<p>Appearing in front of a line of fighters holding Russian flags and Wagner banners, Prigozhin made the claim in a video posted on Telegram.</p>

<p>"Today, at 12 noon, Bakhmut was completely taken," Prigozhin said. "We completely took the whole city, from house to house."</p>

<p>Ukrainian military spokesperson Serhiy Cherevatyi told Reuters: "This is not true. Our units are fighting in Bakhmut."</p>

<p>Currently at the end of its 15th month, the battle for control over Bakhmut has been the longest and bloodiest battle of the ongoing war in Ukraine.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/data-lab-in-maps-strategic-significance-of-bakhmut-in-russia-ukraine-war-571884">Here</a>, WION's Sneha Swaminathan explains Bakhmut's strategic significance in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine,&nbsp;in WION Datalabs.</p>

<p>The Wagner group's chief said that his forces would withdraw from Bakhmut from May 25 for recoupment and rest&nbsp;and hand over the control to regular Russian army.</p>

<h2><strong>Kiss Biden on top of his head: Wagner chief to Zelensky</strong></h2>

<p>Wagner chief's video announcing Russian capture of Bakhmut coincided with the meeting of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Joe Biden in Japan's Hiroshima on the sidelines of Group of Seven (G-7) summit.</p>

<p>Prigozhin taunted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky&nbsp;on his meeting with Biden.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-group-will-soon-cease-to-exist-founder-tells-war-blogger-587166">Wagner group will soon cease to exist: Founder tells war blogger</a></strong></p>

<p>Addressing Zelenskyy, Prigozhin said: "Today when you see Biden, kiss him on the top of his head, say hi to him from me."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Prigozhin also repeated his grievances towards regular Russian army and defence ministry in Moscow. He said that his forces suffered far heavier losses because of the inadequate support and ammunition supplies from the army.</p>

<p>Because of Russian bureaucracy and the "whims" of Shoigu and Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov, "five times more guys died than they should have", he said in Saturday's video.</p>

<h2><strong>Capture of Bakhmut Russia's key immediate war aim: British intelligence</strong></h2>

<p>British defence intelligence said on Saturday it was "highly likely" that Russia had deployed up to several battalions to reinforce the Bakhmut sector, following Ukrainian tactical gains on the flanks of the town. It said this represented a "notable commitment by the Russian command".</p>

<p>"Russia's leadership likely continue to see capturing Bakhmut as the key immediate war aim which would allow them to claim some degree of success in the conflict," it said on Twitter.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Wagner Chief Prigozhin offered to share positions of Russian troops: Report</strong></p>

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<p>Prigozhin has himself acknowledged that Bakhmut, a city of 70,000 people before the war, had no strategic significance, but it took on huge symbolic importance for both sides because of the sheer intensity of the fighting and the scale of losses.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russia's Wagner group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin said that Russian fighters had completed the capture of Bakhmut, a claim which was promptly rejected by Kyiv. Appearing in front of a line of fighters holding Russian flags and Wagner banners, Prigozhin made the claim in a video posted on Telegram.

Russia's Wagner group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin said that Russian fighters had completed the capture of Bakhmut, a claim which was promptly rejected by Kyiv. Appearing in front of a line of fighters holding Russian flags and Wagner banners, Prigozhin made the claim in a video posted on Telegram. "Today, at 12 noon, Bakhmut was completely taken," Prigozhin said. "We completely took the whole city, from house to house." Ukrainian military spokesperson Serhiy Cherevatyi told Reuters: "This is not true. Our units are fighting in Bakhmut." Currently at the end of its 15th month, the battle for control over Bakhmut has been the longest and bloodiest battle of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Here, WION's Sneha Swaminathan explains Bakhmut's strategic significance in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, in WION Datalabs. The Wagner group's chief said that his forces would withdraw from Bakhmut from May 25 for recoupment and rest and hand over the control to regular Russian army. Kiss Biden on top of his head: Wagner chief to Zelensky Wagner chief's video announcing Russian capture of Bakhmut coincided with the meeting of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Joe Biden in Japan's Hiroshima on the sidelines of Group of Seven (G-7) summit. Prigozhin taunted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on his meeting with Biden. ALSO READ | Wagner group will soon cease to exist: Founder tells war blogger Addressing Zelenskyy, Prigozhin said: "Today when you see Biden, kiss him on the top of his head, say hi to him from me." Meanwhile, Prigozhin also repeated his grievances towards regular Russian army and defence ministry in Moscow. He said that his forces suffered far heavier losses because of the inadequate support and ammunition supplies from the army. Because of Russian bureaucracy and the "whims" of Shoigu and Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov, "five times more guys died than they should have", he said in Saturday's video. Capture of Bakhmut Russia's key immediate war aim: British intelligence British defence intelligence said on Saturday it was "highly likely" that Russia had deployed up to several battalions to reinforce the Bakhmut sector, following Ukrainian tactical gains on the flanks of the town. It said this represented a "notable commitment by the Russian command". "Russia's leadership likely continue to see capturing Bakhmut as the key immediate war aim which would allow them to claim some degree of success in the conflict," it said on Twitter. ALSO WATCH | Wagner Chief Prigozhin offered to share positions of Russian troops: Report × Prigozhin has himself acknowledged that Bakhmut, a city of 70,000 people before the war, had no strategic significance, but it took on huge symbolic importance for both sides because of the sheer intensity of the fighting and the scale of losses. (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.

'Kiss Biden on top of his head', Wagner chief announces Russian capture of Bakhmut; Kyiv denies

<p>The French parliament has urged the European Union ( EU) to formally label the Russian mercenary group Wagner as terrorists. The United Kingdom reportedly is also ready to designate the group as a terrorist organisation.</p>

<p>The French parliament collectively passed a non-binding resolution inclined towards motivating the 27 members of the EU to put Wagner on its official list of terrorist organisations.</p>

<p>“Wherever they work, Wagner members spread instability and violence,” Al Jazeera quoted French legislator Benjamin Haddad as saying in the parliament.</p>

<p>“They kill and torture. They massacre and pillage. They intimidate and manipulate with almost total impunity,” he said.</p>

<p>“Wagner fighters are not simple mercenaries driven by an appetite for money but they follow a broad strategy, from Mali to Ukraine, of supporting the aggressive policies of President (Vladimir) Putin’s regime towards our democracies,” he added.</p>

<p>Wagner has also been blamed for pushing anti-French propaganda operations in West Africa, particularly Mali.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They have also been responsible for helming Russia’s months-long attack on Bakhmut, situated in Ukraine’s industrial Donbas region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukraine’s&nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked the French parliament and called other countries to follow the same path.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Special thanks to the French parliament for today’s decision to recognise the Russian pseudo-private Wagner group as a terrorist organisation,” Zelensky said.</p>

<p>“This is something that should be adopted by the entire world – every manifestation of terrorism must be destroyed, and every terrorist must be convicted,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Britain poised to label Wagner group terrorist&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Britain is poised to formally announce the Russian mercenary force Wagner Group as a terrorist organisation, according to The&nbsp;Times newspaper.</p>

<p>This would also result in the imposition of financial sanctions and other penalties, as a way of mounting pressure on Russia.</p>

<h2><strong>What happens after Wagner is labelled a terrorist organisation?</strong></h2>

<p>Firstly, EU members would be able to freeze the assets of the Wagner group and its members, with European companies and citizens being prohibited from all kinds of dealings with the group, as reported by The Guardian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Wagner group chief Prigozhin had his assets in the European Union frozen in 2020 and was placed on a visa blacklist over the deployment of Wagner fighters to war-ravaged&nbsp;&nbsp;Libya, a decision he unsuccessfully appealed against.</p>

<p>French foreign minister, Catherine Colonna, admitted to lawmakers on Tuesday (May 9),&nbsp;that legally the EU terrorist label would not have any “direct supplemental effect” on the group and its actions, but “we should not underestimate the symbolic importance of such a designation, nor the dissuasive effect that it could have on states tempted to turn” to Wagner, she said.</p>

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The French parliament has urged the European Union ( EU) to formally label the Russian mercenary group Wagner as terrorists. The United Kingdom reportedly is also ready to designate the group as a terrorist organisation.

The French parliament has urged the European Union ( EU) to formally label the Russian mercenary group Wagner as terrorists. The United Kingdom reportedly is also ready to designate the group as a terrorist organisation. The French parliament collectively passed a non-binding resolution inclined towards motivating the 27 members of the EU to put Wagner on its official list of terrorist organisations. “Wherever they work, Wagner members spread instability and violence,” Al Jazeera quoted French legislator Benjamin Haddad as saying in the parliament. “They kill and torture. They massacre and pillage. They intimidate and manipulate with almost total impunity,” he said. “Wagner fighters are not simple mercenaries driven by an appetite for money but they follow a broad strategy, from Mali to Ukraine, of supporting the aggressive policies of President (Vladimir) Putin’s regime towards our democracies,” he added. Wagner has also been blamed for pushing anti-French propaganda operations in West Africa, particularly Mali. They have also been responsible for helming Russia’s months-long attack on Bakhmut, situated in Ukraine’s industrial Donbas region. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked the French parliament and called other countries to follow the same path. “Special thanks to the French parliament for today’s decision to recognise the Russian pseudo-private Wagner group as a terrorist organisation,” Zelensky said. “This is something that should be adopted by the entire world – every manifestation of terrorism must be destroyed, and every terrorist must be convicted,” he added. Britain poised to label Wagner group terrorist Britain is poised to formally announce the Russian mercenary force Wagner Group as a terrorist organisation, according to The Times newspaper. This would also result in the imposition of financial sanctions and other penalties, as a way of mounting pressure on Russia. What happens after Wagner is labelled a terrorist organisation? Firstly, EU members would be able to freeze the assets of the Wagner group and its members, with European companies and citizens being prohibited from all kinds of dealings with the group, as reported by The Guardian. The Wagner group chief Prigozhin had his assets in the European Union frozen in 2020 and was placed on a visa blacklist over the deployment of Wagner fighters to war-ravaged Libya, a decision he unsuccessfully appealed against. French foreign minister, Catherine Colonna, admitted to lawmakers on Tuesday (May 9), that legally the EU terrorist label would not have any “direct supplemental effect” on the group and its actions, but “we should not underestimate the symbolic importance of such a designation, nor the dissuasive effect that it could have on states tempted to turn” to Wagner, she said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

France urges EU to list Wagner as 'terrorist group', UK set to formalise classification

<p>Russia has suspended operations at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in light of provocations by Ukrainian forces. Yevgeny Balitsky, the Moscow-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of the surrounding region, cited concerns over Kyiv's anticipated counteroffensive to reclaim Russian-held territory, including areas in the Zaporizhzhia region. The conflict in Sudan rages as the capital city Khartoum reported air strikes on Monday (May 8). A southern Khartoum resident told AFP that their family could hear “the sound of airstrikes which appeared to come from near a market in central Khartoum.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>And in the United States, a man in Brownsville, Texas has been charged with manslaughter after he seemingly lost control of his car and ploughed into a crowd of mostly Venezuelans outside a migrant centre. Eight people died and investigators&nbsp;are now trying to determine if the crash was intentional.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-suspends-operations-at-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-evacuates-civilians-amid-threat-of-provocation-590420"><strong>Russia suspends operations at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, evacuates civilians amid threat of 'provocation'</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/08/350564-new-wion-29.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>In light of "provocations" by Ukrainian forces, operations at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant have been suspended, according to a TASS state news agency report. The Moscow-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of the surrounding region,&nbsp;Yevgeny Balitsky, cited concerns over Ukraine's anticipated counteroffensive to reclaim Russian-held territory, including areas in the Zaporizhzhia region.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/air-strikes-continue-in-sudan-with-no-major-progress-in-truce-talks-590470"><strong>Air strikes continue in Sudan with ‘no major progress in truce talks</strong></a></p>

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<p>As the two warring factions in Sudan began, United States-Saudi Arabia brokered truce talks in the Saudi Red Sea city of Jeddah over the weekend, the Sudanese capital, on Monday (May 8) continued to witness air strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-texas-driver-charged-with-manslaughter-after-deadly-crash-in-brownsville-590430"><strong>US: Texas driver charged with manslaughter after deadly crash in Brownsville</strong></a></p>

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<p>At least eight people were mauled to death in Brownsville, Texas, on Sunday after an SUV ploughed into a group of people, at a bus stop near a homeless shelter. The man accused and later identified has been charged with eight counts of manslaughter, said the local police chief on Monday (May 8). This comes as the investigators are now trying to determine if the crash was intentional.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-chief-says-fighters-begin-to-receive-ammo-after-threat-to-pull-out-of-bakhmut-590450"><strong>Wagner chief says fighters begin to receive ammo after threatening to pull out of Bakhmut</strong></a></p>

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<p>The head of Russia’s mercenary outfit Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin, on Monday (May 8) said that it began receiving the ammunition it needed to press its advance to capture the key eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | China's foreign minister meets US envoy to China for first time</strong></p>

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Russia has suspended operations at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in light of provocations by Ukrainian forces. Yevgeny Balitsky, the Moscow-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of the surrounding region, cited concerns over Kyiv's anticipated counteroffensive to reclaim Russian-held territory, including areas in the Zaporizhzhia region.

Russia has suspended operations at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in light of provocations by Ukrainian forces. Yevgeny Balitsky, the Moscow-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of the surrounding region, cited concerns over Kyiv's anticipated counteroffensive to reclaim Russian-held territory, including areas in the Zaporizhzhia region. The conflict in Sudan rages as the capital city Khartoum reported air strikes on Monday (May 8). A southern Khartoum resident told AFP that their family could hear “the sound of airstrikes which appeared to come from near a market in central Khartoum.” And in the United States, a man in Brownsville, Texas has been charged with manslaughter after he seemingly lost control of his car and ploughed into a crowd of mostly Venezuelans outside a migrant centre. Eight people died and investigators are now trying to determine if the crash was intentional. Click on the headlines to read more: Russia suspends operations at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, evacuates civilians amid threat of 'provocation' In light of "provocations" by Ukrainian forces, operations at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant have been suspended, according to a TASS state news agency report. The Moscow-installed governor of the Russia-controlled part of the surrounding region, Yevgeny Balitsky, cited concerns over Ukraine's anticipated counteroffensive to reclaim Russian-held territory, including areas in the Zaporizhzhia region. Air strikes continue in Sudan with ‘no major progress in truce talks As the two warring factions in Sudan began, United States-Saudi Arabia brokered truce talks in the Saudi Red Sea city of Jeddah over the weekend, the Sudanese capital, on Monday (May 8) continued to witness air strikes. US: Texas driver charged with manslaughter after deadly crash in Brownsville At least eight people were mauled to death in Brownsville, Texas, on Sunday after an SUV ploughed into a group of people, at a bus stop near a homeless shelter. The man accused and later identified has been charged with eight counts of manslaughter, said the local police chief on Monday (May 8). This comes as the investigators are now trying to determine if the crash was intentional. Wagner chief says fighters begin to receive ammo after threatening to pull out of Bakhmut The head of Russia’s mercenary outfit Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin, on Monday (May 8) said that it began receiving the ammunition it needed to press its advance to capture the key eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. WATCH | China's foreign minister meets US envoy to China for first time × 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.

Morning brief: Russia suspends operations at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, air strikes continue in Sudan, & more

<p>The head of Russia’s mercenary outfit Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin, on Monday (May 8) said that it began receiving the ammunition it needed to press its advance to capture the key eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after he had said that he had previously threatened that his fighters will leave the besieged Ukrainian city and accused the Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Russian military’s chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov of withholding ammunition. He went on to claim their reluctance to send more ammunition, saying that because of lack of support, their forces were “facing a senseless death”.</p>

<p><strong>What did Prigozhin say in the latest message?</strong></p>

<p>In a message released by his spokespeople on Monday, Prigozhin said, “According to preliminary data, we are beginning to receive ammunition,” adding that “we have not (yet) seen it in practice.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, he also claimed that “today, the groups advanced a maximum of 130 metres (400 feet)...Fierce fighting is going on, but the groups are continuing to advance,” said the Wagner chief, in an audio message.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-chief-asks-moscow-to-let-him-hand-over-bakhmut-positions-to-chechen-leader-589811">Wagner chief asks Moscow to let him hand over Bakhmut positions to Chechen leader</a></strong></p>

<p>He also indicated that Ukrainian forces were confined to an area of about 2.36 square kilometres (0.9 square miles) in the town.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Wagner chief threatens to leave Bakmut</strong></p>

<p>In a series of scathing videos, Wagner’s chief blamed the Russian military’s top brass for “tens of thousands” of killed and wounded Russian fighters in Ukraine and vowed to hold them accountable over what he claimed was a failure to provide fighters from his mercenary group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Subsequently, in a written statement on the messaging app Telegram, he wrote, “On May 10, 2023 we will have to hand over our positions in Bakhmut to units of the defence ministry and withdraw Wagner units to rear camps to lick our wounds.” The Wagner chief added, “I will pull out Wagner units from Bakhmut because, in the absence of ammunition, they are facing a senseless death.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-group-chief-says-russia-promised-more-ammo-after-threat-may-stay-in-bakhmut-589988">Wagner group chief says Russia promised more ammo after threat, may stay in Bakhmut</a></strong></p>

<p>The next day, he asked Moscow to let him hand over his positions in the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. “I ask you to issue a combat order before 00:00 on May 10 concerning the transfer of the positions of the Wagner paramilitary units in Bakhmut and its periphery, to the units of the Akhmat battalion,” said Prigozhin, in a letter to Shoigu.</p>

<p>However, in a new message on Sunday, Prigozhin hinted at the possibility of backtracking his ultimatum after assurances from the Russian government. “The bottom line is the following: they promise to give us ammunition and weapons, as much as we need to continue further actions.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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<em><strong>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.</strong></em></p>

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The head of Russia’s mercenary outfit Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin, on Monday (May 8) said that it began receiving the ammunition it needed to press its advance to capture the key eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut.

The head of Russia’s mercenary outfit Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin, on Monday (May 8) said that it began receiving the ammunition it needed to press its advance to capture the key eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. This comes after he had said that he had previously threatened that his fighters will leave the besieged Ukrainian city and accused the Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Russian military’s chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov of withholding ammunition. He went on to claim their reluctance to send more ammunition, saying that because of lack of support, their forces were “facing a senseless death”. What did Prigozhin say in the latest message? In a message released by his spokespeople on Monday, Prigozhin said, “According to preliminary data, we are beginning to receive ammunition,” adding that “we have not (yet) seen it in practice.” Furthermore, he also claimed that “today, the groups advanced a maximum of 130 metres (400 feet)...Fierce fighting is going on, but the groups are continuing to advance,” said the Wagner chief, in an audio message. ALSO READ | Wagner chief asks Moscow to let him hand over Bakhmut positions to Chechen leader He also indicated that Ukrainian forces were confined to an area of about 2.36 square kilometres (0.9 square miles) in the town. Wagner chief threatens to leave Bakmut In a series of scathing videos, Wagner’s chief blamed the Russian military’s top brass for “tens of thousands” of killed and wounded Russian fighters in Ukraine and vowed to hold them accountable over what he claimed was a failure to provide fighters from his mercenary group. Subsequently, in a written statement on the messaging app Telegram, he wrote, “On May 10, 2023 we will have to hand over our positions in Bakhmut to units of the defence ministry and withdraw Wagner units to rear camps to lick our wounds.” The Wagner chief added, “I will pull out Wagner units from Bakhmut because, in the absence of ammunition, they are facing a senseless death.” ALSO READ | Wagner group chief says Russia promised more ammo after threat, may stay in Bakhmut The next day, he asked Moscow to let him hand over his positions in the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. “I ask you to issue a combat order before 00:00 on May 10 concerning the transfer of the positions of the Wagner paramilitary units in Bakhmut and its periphery, to the units of the Akhmat battalion,” said Prigozhin, in a letter to Shoigu. However, in a new message on Sunday, Prigozhin hinted at the possibility of backtracking his ultimatum after assurances from the Russian government. “The bottom line is the following: they promise to give us ammunition and weapons, as much as we need to continue further actions.” (With inputs from agencies) 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. 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 says fighters begin to receive ammo after threatening to pull out of Bakhmut

<p>Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Saturday asked Moscow to let him hand over the Bakhmut positions to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I ask you to issue a combat order before 00:00 on May 10 concerning the transfer of the positions of the Wagner paramilitary units in Bakhmut and its periphery, to the units of the Akhmat battalion," Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a letter to Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.</p>

<p>The Akhmat battalion refers to the Chechen combat units under the command of Kadyrov, who has ruled Russia's Muslim-majority republic Chechnya for the last decade and a half.</p>

<p>Prigozhin said that his fighters would be compelled to withdraw because of a long "ammunition famine".</p>

<p>He condemned the Russian defence ministry for delivering only 32 per cent of the required ammunition since October 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov to send forces replacing Wagner in Bakhmut</strong></h2>

<p>Chechen leader and a staunch ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ramzan Kadyrov, said his forces are ready to replace Wagner Group mercenaries in Bakhmut.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after Wagner Group announced the withdrawal of forces from the Bakhmut region with its leader Prigozhin citing lack of ammunition as the reason.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kadyrov, reacting to Wagner's comments on leaving Bakhmut and giving the command to Russian Defence Ministry’s forces, said, "If the elder brother Prigozhin and Wagner fighters leave, the General Staff will lose an experienced combat unit, but the younger brother Kadyrov and the Akhmat unit will replace them in Artyomovsk."</p>

<p>"If such a scenario is implemented, our fighters are ready to advance and take the city. However, we would like the last remaining two kilometres to be taken not at the expense of the lives of our warriors but as a result of mutual understanding, support and the determination of commanders and soldiers," Kadyrov noted.</p>

<p>"The interests of the state and the country’s security should come first. Once the special military operation is over, I would like all of us to emerge victorious and all the soldiers, commanders and Russian patriots to stand together," Kadyrov added.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia's Wagner threatens to leave Bakhmut</strong></h2>

<p>Wagner Group chief on Friday announced that on May 10 it will pull out from the Bakhmut region where the battle to overrun Ukrainian resistance is continuing with sharp intensity for nearly two months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wagner Group boss Yevgeny Prigozhin said that his men were facing a lack of ammunition and that he would expect the army to take their place in Bakhmut next Wednesday.</p>

<p>"My lads will not suffer useless and unjustified losses in Bakhmut without ammunition," Prigozhin said in a video accompanying a written withdrawal announcement addressed to military leaders including President Vladimir Putin.</p>

<p>In the announcement, he condemned 'bureaucrats' for holding back the ammunition supplies despite knowing that Wagner's target date to capture the city was May 9, which is also the day of the World War II commemoration.</p>

<p>"If, because of your petty jealousy, you do not want to give the Russian people the victory of taking Bakhmut, that's your problem," Prigozhin added in the video.</p>

<p>As per RIA news agency reports, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu had instructed one of his deputy ministers to ensure troops had all the weapons they needed.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>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.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>

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Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Saturday asked Moscow to let him hand over the Bakhmut positions to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. "I ask you to issue a combat order before 00:00 on May 10 concerning the transfer of the positions of the Wagner paramilitary units in Bakhmut and its periphery, to the units of the Akhmat battalion," Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a letter to Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu.

Russian mercenary group Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Saturday asked Moscow to let him hand over the Bakhmut positions to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. "I ask you to issue a combat order before 00:00 on May 10 concerning the transfer of the positions of the Wagner paramilitary units in Bakhmut and its periphery, to the units of the Akhmat battalion," Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a letter to Russia's Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu. The Akhmat battalion refers to the Chechen combat units under the command of Kadyrov, who has ruled Russia's Muslim-majority republic Chechnya for the last decade and a half. Prigozhin said that his fighters would be compelled to withdraw because of a long "ammunition famine". He condemned the Russian defence ministry for delivering only 32 per cent of the required ammunition since October 2022. Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov to send forces replacing Wagner in Bakhmut Chechen leader and a staunch ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Ramzan Kadyrov, said his forces are ready to replace Wagner Group mercenaries in Bakhmut. This comes after Wagner Group announced the withdrawal of forces from the Bakhmut region with its leader Prigozhin citing lack of ammunition as the reason. Kadyrov, reacting to Wagner's comments on leaving Bakhmut and giving the command to Russian Defence Ministry’s forces, said, "If the elder brother Prigozhin and Wagner fighters leave, the General Staff will lose an experienced combat unit, but the younger brother Kadyrov and the Akhmat unit will replace them in Artyomovsk." "If such a scenario is implemented, our fighters are ready to advance and take the city. However, we would like the last remaining two kilometres to be taken not at the expense of the lives of our warriors but as a result of mutual understanding, support and the determination of commanders and soldiers," Kadyrov noted. "The interests of the state and the country’s security should come first. Once the special military operation is over, I would like all of us to emerge victorious and all the soldiers, commanders and Russian patriots to stand together," Kadyrov added. Russia's Wagner threatens to leave Bakhmut Wagner Group chief on Friday announced that on May 10 it will pull out from the Bakhmut region where the battle to overrun Ukrainian resistance is continuing with sharp intensity for nearly two months. Wagner Group boss Yevgeny Prigozhin said that his men were facing a lack of ammunition and that he would expect the army to take their place in Bakhmut next Wednesday. "My lads will not suffer useless and unjustified losses in Bakhmut without ammunition," Prigozhin said in a video accompanying a written withdrawal announcement addressed to military leaders including President Vladimir Putin. In the announcement, he condemned 'bureaucrats' for holding back the ammunition supplies despite knowing that Wagner's target date to capture the city was May 9, which is also the day of the World War II commemoration. "If, because of your petty jealousy, you do not want to give the Russian people the victory of taking Bakhmut, that's your problem," Prigozhin added in the video. As per RIA news agency reports, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu had instructed one of his deputy ministers to ensure troops had all the weapons they needed. (With inputs from agencies) 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. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Wagner chief asks Moscow to let him hand over Bakhmut positions to Chechen leader

<p>Russian mercenary Wagner Group's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Friday threatened to pull his frontline troops out of Bakhmut. In a series of scathing videos, the Wagner chief blamed Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov for "tens of thousands" of killed and wounded Russian fighters in Ukraine. Ahead of an expected Ukrainian offensive, Prigozhin's extraordinary attack on military chiefs, as per AFP, has exposed a deep rift in Russian ranks.</p>

<p>Vowing to hold the generals to account for their failure to provide his fighters with sufficient ammunition, the paramilitary leader said: "For the tens of thousands killed and wounded, they will bear responsibility in front of their mothers and children, I will achieve that."</p>

<p>"Their unprofessionalism is destroying tens of thousands of Russian guys and that is unforgivable," he added.</p>

<p>Here's all you need to know about Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and his anger at Russian generals.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Yevgeny Prigozhin?</strong></h2>

<p>Yevgeny Viktorovich Prigozhin is a Russian oligarch and a confidant of President Vladimir Putin, who is often called "Putin's chef."&nbsp;</p>

<p>His nickname stems from the fact that he owns restaurants and catering companies that provide services for the Kremlin.</p>

<p>The Wagner chief started his career as a petty criminal and even spent a decade behind bars for crime. Released from jail in 1990, he started selling hotdogs and before long owned a chain of supermarkets, before opening a restaurant called the Old Customs House which became&nbsp;one of Putin's favourite haunts.</p>

<h2><strong>Prigozhin and Putin</strong></h2>

<p>As per the Guardian, the Wagner chief and the Russian President met back when Putin was deputy mayor of St Petersburg, serving under the-then mayor, Anatoly Sobchak.</p>

<p>Putin was reportedly a frequent patron of&nbsp;Prigozhin's restaurant, Old Customs House, on St Petersburg's Vasilievsky Island; even after ascending to the post of Russian President, he would often take his guests to the restaurant, which by then had been turned into a floating restaurant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He would soon go on to win contracts and cater for major government events through Concord, a holding company he had set up back in the 1990s. Next, he would win giant government supply contracts worth billions of roubles to provide food to Moscow’s schools and eventually the army.</p>

<p>In 2014, he founded Wagner to support Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine.</p>

<p>As Prigozhin describes it: "I cleaned the old weapons myself, sorted out the bulletproof vests myself and found specialists who could help me with this. From that moment, on 1 May 2014, a group of patriots was born, which later came to be called the Wagner Battalion."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I am proud that I was able to defend their right to protect the interests of their country," he added in the September 2022 statement, posted by his catering company, Concord.</p>

<h2><strong>The Wagner Group</strong></h2>

<p>Prigozhin controls a network of influential companies and is the founder of the Russian state-backed mercenary company Wagner Group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The group, as per the Business Insider report, has played a significant role in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and was reportedly deployed to assassinate Ukrainian leaders. As per Russian media outlet Mediazona, the Wagner group has also been recruiting prisoners for frontline combat.</p>

<p>Wagner Group's&nbsp;ranks according to Western intelligence estimates have ballooned to about 50,000. This includes tens of thousands of ex-prisoners recruited from jails around Russia, often personally by Prigozhin.</p>

<p>The group has been accused of committing human rights abuses in Ukraine, Syria, Libya, Central African Republic, Sudan and Mozambique.</p>

<p>As per a report by Polygraph, Prigozhin also controls three companies that have been accused of interference in the 2016 and 2018 US elections. For the alleged influencing of elections, Prigozhin, along with six other individuals was even (re) designated under the Specially Designated Nationals And Blocked Persons List (SDN).</p>

<h2><strong>Prigozhin’s anger at&nbsp;Russian generals</strong></h2>

<p>The Wagner chief in a series of scathing videos has threatened to pull out his&nbsp;troops from Bakhmut.</p>

<p>"I will pull out Wagner units from Bakhmut because, in the absence of ammunition, they are facing a senseless death," said Prigozhin in a recently released video statement. He added that he was now expecting a plan from the military on how to implement the withdrawal.</p>

<p>As per AFP, while Prigozhin has made similar threats to pull out in the past, the emotive language and the scathing personal criticism of the leaders of Russia's campaign in Ukraine were unprecedented.</p>

<p>The Wagner chief claims that Russian generals are "withholding" ammunition urgently needed by his men. In February of this year, he had even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason".</p>

<p>Previously, in December 2022, he accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of cutting him off completely and said that he has been unable to get through to anyone at the Kremlin.</p>

<p>On his Telegram channel, he said, "To get me to stop asking for ammunition, all the hotlines to offices, to departments etc., have been cut off from me. But the real humdinger is that they’ve also blocked agencies from making decisions [related to Wagner]."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Russian mercenary Wagner Group's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Friday threatened to pull his frontline troops out of Bakhmut. In a series of scathing videos, the Wagner chief blamed Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov for "tens of thousands" of killed and wounded Russian fighters in Ukraine.

Russian mercenary Wagner Group's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on Friday threatened to pull his frontline troops out of Bakhmut. In a series of scathing videos, the Wagner chief blamed Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov for "tens of thousands" of killed and wounded Russian fighters in Ukraine. Ahead of an expected Ukrainian offensive, Prigozhin's extraordinary attack on military chiefs, as per AFP, has exposed a deep rift in Russian ranks. Vowing to hold the generals to account for their failure to provide his fighters with sufficient ammunition, the paramilitary leader said: "For the tens of thousands killed and wounded, they will bear responsibility in front of their mothers and children, I will achieve that." "Their unprofessionalism is destroying tens of thousands of Russian guys and that is unforgivable," he added. Here's all you need to know about Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and his anger at Russian generals. Who is Yevgeny Prigozhin? Yevgeny Viktorovich Prigozhin is a Russian oligarch and a confidant of President Vladimir Putin, who is often called "Putin's chef." His nickname stems from the fact that he owns restaurants and catering companies that provide services for the Kremlin. The Wagner chief started his career as a petty criminal and even spent a decade behind bars for crime. Released from jail in 1990, he started selling hotdogs and before long owned a chain of supermarkets, before opening a restaurant called the Old Customs House which became one of Putin's favourite haunts. Prigozhin and Putin As per the Guardian, the Wagner chief and the Russian President met back when Putin was deputy mayor of St Petersburg, serving under the-then mayor, Anatoly Sobchak. Putin was reportedly a frequent patron of Prigozhin's restaurant, Old Customs House, on St Petersburg's Vasilievsky Island; even after ascending to the post of Russian President, he would often take his guests to the restaurant, which by then had been turned into a floating restaurant. He would soon go on to win contracts and cater for major government events through Concord, a holding company he had set up back in the 1990s. Next, he would win giant government supply contracts worth billions of roubles to provide food to Moscow’s schools and eventually the army. In 2014, he founded Wagner to support Russian-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine. As Prigozhin describes it: "I cleaned the old weapons myself, sorted out the bulletproof vests myself and found specialists who could help me with this. From that moment, on 1 May 2014, a group of patriots was born, which later came to be called the Wagner Battalion." "I am proud that I was able to defend their right to protect the interests of their country," he added in the September 2022 statement, posted by his catering company, Concord. The Wagner Group Prigozhin controls a network of influential companies and is the founder of the Russian state-backed mercenary company Wagner Group. The group, as per the Business Insider report, has played a significant role in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and was reportedly deployed to assassinate Ukrainian leaders. As per Russian media outlet Mediazona, the Wagner group has also been recruiting prisoners for frontline combat. Wagner Group's ranks according to Western intelligence estimates have ballooned to about 50,000. This includes tens of thousands of ex-prisoners recruited from jails around Russia, often personally by Prigozhin. The group has been accused of committing human rights abuses in Ukraine, Syria, Libya, Central African Republic, Sudan and Mozambique. As per a report by Polygraph, Prigozhin also controls three companies that have been accused of interference in the 2016 and 2018 US elections. For the alleged influencing of elections, Prigozhin, along with six other individuals was even (re) designated under the Specially Designated Nationals And Blocked Persons List (SDN). Prigozhin’s anger at Russian generals The Wagner chief in a series of scathing videos has threatened to pull out his troops from Bakhmut. "I will pull out Wagner units from Bakhmut because, in the absence of ammunition, they are facing a senseless death," said Prigozhin in a recently released video statement. He added that he was now expecting a plan from the military on how to implement the withdrawal. As per AFP, while Prigozhin has made similar threats to pull out in the past, the emotive language and the scathing personal criticism of the leaders of Russia's campaign in Ukraine were unprecedented. The Wagner chief claims that Russian generals are "withholding" ammunition urgently needed by his men. In February of this year, he had even termed the withholding of munition supplies as "treason". Previously, in December 2022, he accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of cutting him off completely and said that he has been unable to get through to anyone at the Kremlin. On his Telegram channel, he said, "To get me to stop asking for ammunition, all the hotlines to offices, to departments etc., have been cut off from me. But the real humdinger is that they’ve also blocked agencies from making decisions [related to Wagner]." (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.

Explained | From hotdog seller to Putin's chef, all you need to know about Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin