Russian media reports claiming that mercenary group Wagner is hiring Serbian locals for the Ukrainian war has caused outrage in the country, with the president asking the group to back off and stop involving their citizens in the conflict.

The public outburst from Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Tuesday is considered rare, given that Serbia is known to be a close ally of Russia.

“Why do you, from Wagner, call anyone from Serbia when you know that it is against our regulations?” Vucic said on Serbian television.

He slammed Russian websites and social media groups for posting hiring advertisements in the Serbian language, in which the Wagner Group calls on volunteers to join its ranks, according to local reports.

Vucic reiterated that Serbia was "neutral" regarding the war in Ukraine, but added that he had not spoken to Russian President Vladimir Putin for "many months", reports BBC.

Russia’s RIA news agency on Tuesday published footage purportedly showing two Serbian citizens participating in a weapons training course in Ukraine.

<h2>Russia and Belarus hold joint military drill</h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-and-belarus-hold-joint-military-drill-553302/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Serbian citizens are, by law, banned from participating in foreign conflicts.

Though the exact figure of Serbian citizens participating in the war is currently unknown, some did fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine in 2014.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/outbreak-of-a-nuclear-war-russia-warns-of-escalation-as-west-mulls-sending-powerful-weapons-to-ukraine-554156">Russia warns of escalation, nuclear war outbreak as West mulls sending powerful weapons to Ukraine</a>

According to BBC, Serbian courts had, in fact, convicted more than two dozen people for taking part in "fighting on foreign battlefronts" in the aftermath of the Crimean conflict.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-declares-25-billion-in-additional-weapons-and-munitions-to-ukraine-554285">US declares $2.5 billion in additional weapons and munitions to Ukraine</a>

Apart from Belarus, Serbia is the only other European country that has not joined the Western countries in imposing sanctions against Russia.

Serbia remains the only European country – apart from Belarus – that did not join Western sanctions against Moscow.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE: 

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Russian media reports claiming that mercenary group Wagner is hiring Serbian locals for the Ukrainian war has caused outrage in the country, with the president asking the group to back off and stop involving their citizens in the conflict.

Russian media reports claiming that mercenary group Wagner is hiring Serbian locals for the Ukrainian war has caused outrage in the country, with the president asking the group to back off and stop involving their citizens in the conflict. The public outburst from Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Tuesday is considered rare, given that Serbia is known to be a close ally of Russia. “Why do you, from Wagner, call anyone from Serbia when you know that it is against our regulations?” Vucic said on Serbian television. He slammed Russian websites and social media groups for posting hiring advertisements in the Serbian language, in which the Wagner Group calls on volunteers to join its ranks, according to local reports. Vucic reiterated that Serbia was "neutral" regarding the war in Ukraine, but added that he had not spoken to Russian President Vladimir Putin for "many months", reports BBC. Russia’s RIA news agency on Tuesday published footage purportedly showing two Serbian citizens participating in a weapons training course in Ukraine. Russia and Belarus hold joint military drill Serbian citizens are, by law, banned from participating in foreign conflicts. Though the exact figure of Serbian citizens participating in the war is currently unknown, some did fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine in 2014. Also read | Russia warns of escalation, nuclear war outbreak as West mulls sending powerful weapons to Ukraine According to BBC, Serbian courts had, in fact, convicted more than two dozen people for taking part in "fighting on foreign battlefronts" in the aftermath of the Crimean conflict. Also read | US declares $2.5 billion in additional weapons and munitions to Ukraine Apart from Belarus, Serbia is the only other European country that has not joined the Western countries in imposing sanctions against Russia. Serbia remains the only European country – apart from Belarus – that did not join Western sanctions against Moscow. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Outrage in Serbia over Russian mercenary Wagner Group hiring locals for Ukrainian war

A BBC report says that a former commander with the Russian paramilitary Wagner Group has claimed asylum in Norway. Twenty-six-year-old Andrey Medvedev is currently in Oslo after being detained by border guards following his intrusion last Friday. He is facing charges of illegal entry to Norway, his lawyer Brynjulf Risnes told the BBC.

This is reportedly the first such instance of a soldier from the group defecting to the West.

Risnes informed the publication that he deserted the mercenary group after witnessing war crimes in Ukraine.&nbsp;

His lawyer further informed that his client saw "deserters being executed" by the Wagner Group's internal security service, besides the war crimes.&nbsp;

"In short he felt betrayed and wanted to leave as soon as possible," Risnes said.

Medvedev is also believed to have taken some evidence of war crimes with him to Norway and might share it with investigators probing war crimes.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-praises-wagner-forces-ukraine-denies-moscows-claim-of-soledar-liberation-552470">Russia praises Wagner forces, Ukraine denies Moscow's claim of Soledar 'liberation'</a>

Tarjei Sirma-Tellefsen, police chief of staff in the Norwegian region of Finnmark, also confirmed the development to BBC, although he refused to divulge more details.&nbsp;

However, his identity was confirmed by the Russian human rights group Gulagu, who helped Medvedev leave Russia.&nbsp;

Gulagu's founder Vladimir Osechkin told BBC that Medvedev used to be a soldier in the Russian army. He then joined the Wagner group in July 2022 on a four-month contract, but couldn't bear the war crimes and human rights abuses being committed &nbsp;in Ukraine.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/member-of-russias-private-military-seeks-asylum-in-norway-553376/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

He was in prison between 2017 and 2018. After he joined the outfit, he was put in charge of a Wagner division in Ukraine. He was supplied with around 30-40 troops every week, Osechkin told BBC.

A social media video by Gulagu says that Medvedev fled Ukraine in November after being informed that the group intended to extend his contract indefinitely. He then spent two months underground in Russia and later crossed the border into Norway.

Yevgeny Prigozhin, founder of the Wagner Group, laughed&nbsp;off all allegations.

Prigozhin mocked Medvedev in a statement saying he is linked to a non-existent Nordic mercenary unit and that he was a Norwegian citizen.

According to UK officials, Wagner Group makes up about 10 per cent of Russia's forces in Ukraine. They reportedly played a huge role it taking the town of Soledar in eastern Donbas region last week.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

A BBC report says that a former commander with the Russian paramilitary Wagner Group has claimed asylum in Norway. Twenty-six-year-old Andrey Medvedev is currently in Oslo after being detained by border guards following his intrusion last Friday.

A BBC report says that a former commander with the Russian paramilitary Wagner Group has claimed asylum in Norway. Twenty-six-year-old Andrey Medvedev is currently in Oslo after being detained by border guards following his intrusion last Friday. He is facing charges of illegal entry to Norway, his lawyer Brynjulf Risnes told the BBC. This is reportedly the first such instance of a soldier from the group defecting to the West. Risnes informed the publication that he deserted the mercenary group after witnessing war crimes in Ukraine. His lawyer further informed that his client saw "deserters being executed" by the Wagner Group's internal security service, besides the war crimes. "In short he felt betrayed and wanted to leave as soon as possible," Risnes said. Medvedev is also believed to have taken some evidence of war crimes with him to Norway and might share it with investigators probing war crimes. Also Read | Russia praises Wagner forces, Ukraine denies Moscow's claim of Soledar 'liberation' Tarjei Sirma-Tellefsen, police chief of staff in the Norwegian region of Finnmark, also confirmed the development to BBC, although he refused to divulge more details. However, his identity was confirmed by the Russian human rights group Gulagu, who helped Medvedev leave Russia. Gulagu's founder Vladimir Osechkin told BBC that Medvedev used to be a soldier in the Russian army. He then joined the Wagner group in July 2022 on a four-month contract, but couldn't bear the war crimes and human rights abuses being committed in Ukraine. × He was in prison between 2017 and 2018. After he joined the outfit, he was put in charge of a Wagner division in Ukraine. He was supplied with around 30-40 troops every week, Osechkin told BBC. A social media video by Gulagu says that Medvedev fled Ukraine in November after being informed that the group intended to extend his contract indefinitely. He then spent two months underground in Russia and later crossed the border into Norway. Yevgeny Prigozhin, founder of the Wagner Group, laughed off all allegations. Prigozhin mocked Medvedev in a statement saying he is linked to a non-existent Nordic mercenary unit and that he was a Norwegian citizen. According to UK officials, Wagner Group makes up about 10 per cent of Russia's forces in Ukraine. They reportedly played a huge role it taking the town of Soledar in eastern Donbas region last week. (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 group commander seeks asylum in Norway claiming war crimes by the outfit

Russian troops have claimed control of the eastern Ukrainian town of Soledar after weeks of intense fighting, Russia’s defence ministry says.

War in Ukraine: Russia's Wagner group claims to have taken Ukraine's Soledar

The Russian army on Wednesday (January 11) countered mercenary group Wagner's claim a day back that its fighters had taken control of the Soledar City in Ukraine. Issuing a statement, the Russian army said the battle for Soledar is ongoing, adding assault squads were fighting in the city, a report by news agency AFP said.&nbsp;The army said its forces blocked Soledar from the&nbsp;northern and southern areas and that the air force was striking enemy households.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-us-to-supply-armoured-combat-vehicles-to-ukraine-549894">Germany, US to supply armoured combat vehicles to Ukraine</a>

Earlier, Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin claimed late Tuesday that the group took control of the entire territory of the city. Prigozhin added the number of captives would be announced on Wednesday but there is no update yet. The Wagner chief also published a photograph of himself in military uniform surrounded by the group's fighters.&nbsp;

Before the Russian army's response, the Ukrainian government denied Wagner's claim of taking control of Soledar.&nbsp;"Soledar&nbsp;was, is and will be Ukrainian," the strategic communications branch of the Ukrainian military said in a statement, an earlier AFP report said.&nbsp;The branch said that photographs released by Wagner&nbsp;that Russian media said were taken in&nbsp;Soledar&nbsp;had been taken elsewhere.

ALSO WATCH | German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock visits Kharkiv

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/german-foreign-minister-annalena-baerbock-visits-kharkiv-551334/embed" width="560"></iframe>

As the war in Ukraine continues, the Russian military struck Kharkiv city in eastern Ukraine on Tuesday, just hours after a visit by German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock.

Taking to Telegram, regional governor Oleg Synegubov warned Kharkiv's residents to stay in shelters as occupiers were bombing again. The city has faced heavy bombardment since the beginning of Russia's offensive in Ukraine in February last year. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-is-the-western-press-asking-same-agenda-driven-motivated-questions-462899">'Give Ukraine weapons': Is the western press asking same, agenda-driven, motivated questions?</a>

German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock became the first highest-level Western official to visit Kharkiv, AFP reported. Baerbock vowed further German support for Ukraine and stressed that her government will keep supplying weapons that Ukraine needs to free its citizens who are still suffering under the terror of Russian occupation.

The German foreign minister provided Ukraine with the following- a &nbsp;"further help package" of power generators, 20 million euros ($21 million) for demining and 20 million euros as financial help for the Starlink project ensuring internet access.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The Russian army on Wednesday (January 11) countered mercenary group Wagner's claim a day back that its fighters had taken control of the Soledar City in Ukraine.

The Russian army on Wednesday (January 11) countered mercenary group Wagner's claim a day back that its fighters had taken control of the Soledar City in Ukraine. Issuing a statement, the Russian army said the battle for Soledar is ongoing, adding assault squads were fighting in the city, a report by news agency AFP said. The army said its forces blocked Soledar from the northern and southern areas and that the air force was striking enemy households. ALSO READ | Germany, US to supply armoured combat vehicles to Ukraine Earlier, Wagner's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin claimed late Tuesday that the group took control of the entire territory of the city. Prigozhin added the number of captives would be announced on Wednesday but there is no update yet. The Wagner chief also published a photograph of himself in military uniform surrounded by the group's fighters. Before the Russian army's response, the Ukrainian government denied Wagner's claim of taking control of Soledar. "Soledar was, is and will be Ukrainian," the strategic communications branch of the Ukrainian military said in a statement, an earlier AFP report said. The branch said that photographs released by Wagner that Russian media said were taken in Soledar had been taken elsewhere. ALSO WATCH | German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock visits Kharkiv As the war in Ukraine continues, the Russian military struck Kharkiv city in eastern Ukraine on Tuesday, just hours after a visit by German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock. Taking to Telegram, regional governor Oleg Synegubov warned Kharkiv's residents to stay in shelters as occupiers were bombing again. The city has faced heavy bombardment since the beginning of Russia's offensive in Ukraine in February last year. ALSO READ | 'Give Ukraine weapons': Is the western press asking same, agenda-driven, motivated questions? German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock became the first highest-level Western official to visit Kharkiv, AFP reported. Baerbock vowed further German support for Ukraine and stressed that her government will keep supplying weapons that Ukraine needs to free its citizens who are still suffering under the terror of Russian occupation. The German foreign minister provided Ukraine with the following- a "further help package" of power generators, 20 million euros ($21 million) for demining and 20 million euros as financial help for the Starlink project ensuring internet access. (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.

Russia responds to Wagner’s claim of control over Soledar, says fight for city ongoing

The United States has accused North Korea of supplying battlefield missiles and rockets to the Russian mercenary group Wagner for use in Ukraine. Both North Korea and Wagner have denied the reports.

US: North Korea sold arms to Russia's Wagner group

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.

A senior official in eastern Ukraine said in a television interview that Ukrainian forces struck a headquarters of Russia's Wagner mercenary group, leaving several of them dead. According to Western experts, Wagner are reported to be state-sponsored mercenaries who work to extend the interests of the Kremlin.&nbsp;

Serhiy Haidai, governor of the Russian-occupied Luhansk region, said the hotel where the group met in Kadiivka, Luhansk, suffered major losses following the attack. However, there is no official confirmation on the presence of the Wagner at the hotel.&nbsp;

Photos posted on Telegram channels showed a building largely reduced to rubble.

"They had a little pop there, just where Wagner headquarters was located. A huge number of those who were there died," he said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-strikes-hit-russian-occupied-regions-two-killed-and-several-injured-542055">Missiles strike Russian-occupied regions, two killed and several injured</a>

Haidai said the attack has led to Russia suffering "significant losses". "I am sure that at least 50 per cent&nbsp;of those who managed to survive will die before they get medical care," he said. "This is because even in our Luhansk region, they have stolen equipment."

The private military company has been repeatedly accused of carrying out war crimes and human rights abuses. Notably, the group was set up by Yevgeny Prigozhin, a former restaurateur and close associate of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Wagner units have previously been deployed in Crimea, Syria, Libya, Mali and the Central African Republic.

Meanwhile, fighting between the two countries raged over the weekend. While Russia hit Odesa, Ukraine bombarded a target in the occupied city of Melitopol.&nbsp;

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in a video address late on Saturday that more than 1.5 million people in the southern Odesa region were without power after Russian drone strikes hit two energy facilities. The Ukrainian army is said to have shot down 10 drones in the same attack.

The port of Odesa also was not operating on Sunday, Agriculture Minister Mykola Solsky said, but added that grains traders were not expected to suspend exports.

In Melitopol, a Ukrainian missile attack killed two people and injured 10, pro-Moscow authorities said. A Moscow-installed official shared pictures showing a big fire following the strike.

"Air defence systems destroyed two missiles, four reached their targets," Yevgeny Balitsky said on the Telegram messaging app.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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.

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. A senior official in eastern Ukraine said in a television interview that Ukrainian forces struck a headquarters of Russia's Wagner mercenary group, leaving several of them dead. According to Western experts, Wagner are reported to be state-sponsored mercenaries who work to extend the interests of the Kremlin. Serhiy Haidai, governor of the Russian-occupied Luhansk region, said the hotel where the group met in Kadiivka, Luhansk, suffered major losses following the attack. However, there is no official confirmation on the presence of the Wagner at the hotel. Photos posted on Telegram channels showed a building largely reduced to rubble. "They had a little pop there, just where Wagner headquarters was located. A huge number of those who were there died," he said. Also Read | Missiles strike Russian-occupied regions, two killed and several injured Haidai said the attack has led to Russia suffering "significant losses". "I am sure that at least 50 per cent of those who managed to survive will die before they get medical care," he said. "This is because even in our Luhansk region, they have stolen equipment." The private military company has been repeatedly accused of carrying out war crimes and human rights abuses. Notably, the group was set up by Yevgeny Prigozhin, a former restaurateur and close associate of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Wagner units have previously been deployed in Crimea, Syria, Libya, Mali and the Central African Republic. Meanwhile, fighting between the two countries raged over the weekend. While Russia hit Odesa, Ukraine bombarded a target in the occupied city of Melitopol. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in a video address late on Saturday that more than 1.5 million people in the southern Odesa region were without power after Russian drone strikes hit two energy facilities. The Ukrainian army is said to have shot down 10 drones in the same attack. The port of Odesa also was not operating on Sunday, Agriculture Minister Mykola Solsky said, but added that grains traders were not expected to suspend exports. In Melitopol, a Ukrainian missile attack killed two people and injured 10, pro-Moscow authorities said. A Moscow-installed official shared pictures showing a big fire following the strike. "Air defence systems destroyed two missiles, four reached their targets," Yevgeny Balitsky said on the Telegram messaging app. (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.

Ukraine hits hotel housing Wagner military group, Ukrainian regional official claims

This week in World at War with Mohammed Saleh: 6 people killed in deadly blast in Istanbul Taliban & Pakistan's border guards clash at the Chaman-Spin Boldak border crossing & 3 students shot dead at the University of Virginia Mohammed Saleh gets you an in-depth report of the World's biggest warzones of the week in World At War.

World at War | Decoding Russia's Wagner group in Ukraine war & United States' Blackwater

Russia’s wagner group, the once secretive, private militia controlled by the Russian oligarchy has now opened the military technology centre in St. Petersburg.

Wagner group opens Defence Tech Centre in St. Petersburg, step towards making policies public

Russian President Vladimir Putin's private army, also called the Wagner group has opened its first official headquarters in the city of Saint Petersburg, Russia.Yevgeny Prigozhin, the man who&nbsp;founded the 'mercenary' group said that the headquarters will serve in generating 'new ideas' for Russia's defence capabilities.&nbsp;

"The mission of the PMC Wagner Center is to provide a comfortable environment for generating new ideas to improve Russia's defence capability."

According to reports, the multistorey building topped with a big 'Wagner' sign is expected to provide some credibility to the organisation which has been accused of working in the shadows to do Putin's dirty work, within the country and abroad.&nbsp;

As reported by WION, the Wagner group&nbsp;is alleged to be responsible for at least some of the 13 civilian deaths in conflict-torn Mali, earlier this week.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malian-army-and-russias-wagner-mercenaries-accused-of-civilian-massacre-13-killed-says-source-530414">Read more:&nbsp;Malian army and Russia's Wagner mercenaries accused of civilian massacre, 13 killed, says source</a>

Moreover, if reports coming from the UK's&nbsp;ministry of defence are to be believed, Moscow is recruiting Russian prisoners that are suffering from infectious diseases such as&nbsp;HIV and hepatitis C into the Wagner group.&nbsp;

The report added that role of Putin's private militia had evolved ever since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out. Earlier, the group only hired professional Russian soldiers

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russias-mercenary-wagner-group-faces-uk-court-action-over-ukraine-terrorism-530681">WATCH |&nbsp;Russia's mercenary Wagner group faces UK court action over Ukraine 'terrorism'</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russias-mercenary-wagner-group-faces-uk-court-action-over-ukraine-terrorism-530681/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-recruiting-prisoners-with-hiv-hepatitis-for-putins-private-army-report-529885">Read more:&nbsp;Moscow recruiting prisoners with HIV, hepatitis for Putin's private army: Report</a>

"The role of Wagner Group has evolved significantly since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In previous conflicts, it maintained relatively high recruitment standards, with many of its operators having previously served as professional Russian soldiers," read the report.&nbsp;

It added that the recruitment of prisoners with serious medical concerns, "highlights an approach which now prioritises numbers over experience or quality."

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Russian President Vladimir Putin's private army, also called the Wagner group has opened its first official headquarters in the city of Saint Petersburg, Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's private army, also called the Wagner group has opened its first official headquarters in the city of Saint Petersburg, Russia.Yevgeny Prigozhin, the man who founded the 'mercenary' group said that the headquarters will serve in generating 'new ideas' for Russia's defence capabilities. "The mission of the PMC Wagner Center is to provide a comfortable environment for generating new ideas to improve Russia's defence capability." According to reports, the multistorey building topped with a big 'Wagner' sign is expected to provide some credibility to the organisation which has been accused of working in the shadows to do Putin's dirty work, within the country and abroad. As reported by WION, the Wagner group is alleged to be responsible for at least some of the 13 civilian deaths in conflict-torn Mali, earlier this week. Read more: Malian army and Russia's Wagner mercenaries accused of civilian massacre, 13 killed, says source Moreover, if reports coming from the UK's ministry of defence are to be believed, Moscow is recruiting Russian prisoners that are suffering from infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C into the Wagner group. The report added that role of Putin's private militia had evolved ever since the Russia-Ukraine war broke out. Earlier, the group only hired professional Russian soldiers WATCH | Russia's mercenary Wagner group faces UK court action over Ukraine 'terrorism' × Read more: Moscow recruiting prisoners with HIV, hepatitis for Putin's private army: Report "The role of Wagner Group has evolved significantly since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In previous conflicts, it maintained relatively high recruitment standards, with many of its operators having previously served as professional Russian soldiers," read the report. It added that the recruitment of prisoners with serious medical concerns, "highlights an approach which now prioritises numbers over experience or quality." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Putin's Wagner private army gets its first official headquarters in Russia

British law firm McCue Jury and Partners announced that they took the first step towards what they said was legal action against Russia's mercenary Wagner group over allegations it has committed terrorism in Ukraine.

Russia's mercenary Wagner group faces UK court action over Ukraine 'terrorism'

In a move against Russia's shadowy Wagner group, the lawyers in Britain took the first step towards the groundbreaking legal action against them over allegations that it has committed terrorism in Ukraine.

Legal action initiated against Wagner Group in Britain over terrorism allegations in Ukraine

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. Ukraine destroyed the headquarters of Russia's shadowy Wagner paramilitary group known as the Wagner Group (or Wagner PMC), in the Luhansk region of Ukraine as media reports on Monday (August 15) mentioned. As quoted by BBC, the attack in Popasna was reported by Serhiy Hayday, who is a Ukrainian governor of the Luhansk region. Several other pro-Kremlin war reporters also reported it. ALSO READ | Iran responds to Salman Rushdie's stabbing: Denies involvement but blames writer for the attack Governor Hayday on Telegram wrote that Ukrainian forces "hit an enemy HQ whose whereabouts were established thanks to a Russian journalist". "This time the successful strike destroyed the Wagner PMC HQ in Popasna yesterday," he said. He added that "the number of dead is being clarified," the post added. The report also mentioned that on August 8, Sergei Sreda, who is a Russian war correspondent, wrote about a visit to the "headquarters". He published a post on Telegram, writing: "Arrived at Popasnaya, stopped at the headquarters of the 'PMC Wagner'. I was welcomed as family. Told me some funny stories." ALSO READ | Germany imposes a winter gas tax despite concerns about its effects × Meanwhile, the Ukrainian forces reported heavy Russian shelling and many attempts to advance on several towns in the eastern region of Donetsk. Ukraine also noted that the forces had repelled many of the attacks. The General Staff of Ukraine's armed forces also reported Russian shelling of over a dozen towns on the southern front - particularly the Kherson region. In a news briefing, Natalia Humeniuk, who is a spokesperson for Ukraine's southern military command, said on Monday that the situation was complicated but under control. "The enemy doesn't dare advance by land, but fires at the territories in the rear with artillery and rockets," she said. 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 destroys headquarters of Russia's Wagner paramilitary group: Report

Russia's Wagner Group has reportedly launched a 'recruitment drive'. It is recruiting mercenaries from Russian prisons. Billboards with the group's ads have been installed in Russian cities. What is the Wagner Group? How does it help Moscow? Palki Sharma reports.

Gravitas: Russia's Wagner Group is hiring mercenaries from prisons

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.

Ukraine's defence ministry said Russia has been mobilising militants from the private military company "League" to enter Kyiv which was earlier known as "Wagner".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/here-is-a-look-at-putins-family-who-are-reportedly-hiding-in-a-secret-siberian-underground-bunker-458145">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Here is a look at Putin's family, who are reportedly hiding in a secret Siberian underground bunker</a>

Reports claimed earlier hundreds of mercenary soldiers from the so called "Wagner" group were being sent to Ukraine's capital to assassinate President Zelensky.

What is the Wagner Group?

There is very little evidence of the existence of the Wagner group. Reports claim the shadowy group first emerged in Ukraine in 2014 during the Crimean conflict. After that, it is believed the mercenary group fought in Syria as Russia sought to help President Bashar al-Assad's regime.

Who is Yevgeny Prigozhin?

Reports claim a man named Yevgeny Prigozhin who is believed to be close to President Putin is connected to the mercenary group. According to the US treasury Prigozhin "is the Russian financier of the Internet Research Agency (IRA), which he utilizes to operate global influence operations."

"In early 2021, Prigozhin continued to coordinate messages in an attempt to spread disinformation about the United States government. His vast global network spreads false narratives online," the US treasury said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-is-the-real-mr-putin-meet-the-judo-fighter-who-worked-for-the-kgb-455631">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Who is the real Mr Putin? Meet the judo fighter who worked for the KGB</a>

"OFAC has previously targeted these activities around the world, particularly through the Kremlin-backed Wagner group on the continent of Africa," it said.

According to the US treasury, Prigozhin's influence apparatus is reportedly supporting the Russian government's designed influence operations within Ukraine.

Is Prigozhin linked to Putin?

Reports claim Prigozhin began his business in sausage wholesale in St. Petersburg in the 1990s where Putin worked as an advisor to the city mayor.

He opened a restaurant which was also frequented by Putin during the early part of his presidential tenure. The US government also said Prigozhin is "Kremlin-backed". Prigozhin is reportedly close to Putin and acts as a "middleman" for Russian state activities.

(With inputs from Agencies)&nbsp;

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. Ukraine's defence ministry said Russia has been mobilising militants from the private military company "League" to enter Kyiv which was earlier known as "Wagner". Also Read in Pics: Here is a look at Putin's family, who are reportedly hiding in a secret Siberian underground bunker Reports claimed earlier hundreds of mercenary soldiers from the so called "Wagner" group were being sent to Ukraine's capital to assassinate President Zelensky. What is the Wagner Group? There is very little evidence of the existence of the Wagner group. Reports claim the shadowy group first emerged in Ukraine in 2014 during the Crimean conflict. After that, it is believed the mercenary group fought in Syria as Russia sought to help President Bashar al-Assad's regime. Who is Yevgeny Prigozhin? Reports claim a man named Yevgeny Prigozhin who is believed to be close to President Putin is connected to the mercenary group. According to the US treasury Prigozhin "is the Russian financier of the Internet Research Agency (IRA), which he utilizes to operate global influence operations." "In early 2021, Prigozhin continued to coordinate messages in an attempt to spread disinformation about the United States government. His vast global network spreads false narratives online," the US treasury said. Also Read in Pics: Who is the real Mr Putin? Meet the judo fighter who worked for the KGB "OFAC has previously targeted these activities around the world, particularly through the Kremlin-backed Wagner group on the continent of Africa," it said. According to the US treasury, Prigozhin's influence apparatus is reportedly supporting the Russian government's designed influence operations within Ukraine. Is Prigozhin linked to Putin? Reports claim Prigozhin began his business in sausage wholesale in St. Petersburg in the 1990s where Putin worked as an advisor to the city mayor. He opened a restaurant which was also frequented by Putin during the early part of his presidential tenure. The US government also said Prigozhin is "Kremlin-backed". Prigozhin is reportedly close to Putin and acts as a "middleman" for Russian state activities. (With inputs from Agencies)

Ukraine-Russia war: Who are the 'Wagner' mercenaries?

Mali's government has denied the presence of Russian mercenaries in the West African country after 15 Western powers accused Russia of providing material support to a deployment of private military contractors.

Mali government calls Wagner group deployment baseless

wagner-group

Wagner Group, News on Wagner Group, stories on Wagner Group, articles on Wagner Group, Wagner Group stories at Wion, Wagner Group news, Wagner Group latest news