Mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin led an armed rebellion against the Russian military and walked free. Russia’s main domestic security agency, the FSB, dropped criminal investigation into the Wagner revolt, with no charges against Prigozhin, or any of the other participants. About a dozen Russian troops were killed in clashes during the aborted mutiny, and Putin vowed to punish those behind the rebellion. Reports suggest Wagner is now battling a Russian clampdown.

Payback time for Wagner? 'Offices raided in Syria', strikes hit Libyan airbase used by mercenaries

The Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenko has signed off a law. Banning unfriendly media reports against Belarus by foreign countries. This comes after Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin. Moved to Belarus following a lulled mutiny against the kremlin.

Lukashenko signs new law as Wagner chief seeks shelter in Belarus

US CIA Director William Burns said on Saturday that the armed mutiny by mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin was a challenge to the Russian state that had shown the corrosive effect of President Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine.

Is Russia weak after a Wagner Mutiny?

As Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin moves to Belarus, the big question is what will happen to his group now? Satellite images appear to show build-up at Wagner base in Belarus. Russian media have reported that Wagner has set up a new base at a vacant military facility near the town of Asipovichi, about 90 km from Minsk. What will be Wagner's next move?

What will be Wagner chief's next move from Belarus?

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko claims Wagner's chief Gave up ousting Russia's defence minister. Lukashenko proclaimed his ‘peacekeeping’ role in controlling the Wagner private army’s rebellion in neighbouring Russia. How did he manage to do this and why is Putin trusting his closest ally so much?

Why Putin is trusting Lukashenko?

According to allegations from a Belarusian guerrilla organisation and officials, the Wagner mercenary group may be using the camp, which seemed to be newly constructed in satellite pictures assessed by the Associated Press on Saturday.

Construction of site for Wagner mercenaries underway in Belarus

Two of Russia's top military generals have gone missing since the failed Wagner mutiny. One of the missing generals is a close friend of the Wagner chief. The other is one of the holders of Russia's 'nuclear suitcases'. The Kremlin claims it has no information on the missing generals. Then who does?

Where are Russia's missing military generals?

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday ordered the security at his country's border with Belarus to be tightened after the arrival of fighters from the mercenary group Wagner in the neighbouring nation.

The mercenary group's fighters and its chief were offered an exile in Belarus after their mutiny against Russian military leadership&nbsp;was aborted last week. As a part of a deal, President Vladimir Putin gave the fighters a choice of signing contracts with the Russian defence ministry, returning to civilian life or going into exile in Belarus.

Zelensky, on Friday, said that he had been informed of the situation in Belarus by the Ukrainian intelligence service GUR, foreign intelligence services and border guards.&nbsp;

"By the decision of the Stavka (chief of staff), Commander-in-Chief (Valery) Zaluzhny and General (Sergey) Nayev were instructed to strengthen the northern direction in order to guarantee peace. There are appropriate deadlines," the Ukraine leader said in a video posted on Telegram.&nbsp;

<h2>Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus': Putin</h2>

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the nation late on Monday, said that he would honour his promise to allow Wagner fighters to relocate to Belarus, if they wanted, or to sign a contract with the Defence Ministry or simply return to their families.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-lukashenko-emerged-as-a-key-player-to-resolve-wagner-situation-608913">Explained | How Lukashenko emerged as key player to resolve Wagner situation</a>

"I thank those soldiers and commanders of the Wagner Group who made the only right decision - they did not turn to fratricidal bloodshed, they stopped at the last line. Today, you have the opportunity to continue serving Russia by entering into a contract with the Ministry of Defence or other law enforcement agencies or to return to your family and friends. Whoever wants to, can go to Belarus. The promise I made will be fulfilled."

He then thanked the Wagner mercenary fighters and commanders who had stood down to avoid bloodshed.

“We knew and we know that the vast majority of the fighters and commanders of the Wagner Group are also Russian patriots, devoted to their people and state. They proved it with their courage on the battlefield, liberating the Donbas and Novorossiya. They tried to use them in the dark against their brothers-in-arms, with whom they fought together for the sake of the country and its future. Therefore, from the very beginning of the events, on my direct instructions, steps were taken to avoid a lot of bloodshed."

Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko offered Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin refuge after he aborted the armed rebellion against Moscow a week ago.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday ordered the security at his country's border with Belarus to be tightened after the arrival of fighters from the mercenary group Wagner in the neighbouring nation.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday ordered the security at his country's border with Belarus to be tightened after the arrival of fighters from the mercenary group Wagner in the neighbouring nation. The mercenary group's fighters and its chief were offered an exile in Belarus after their mutiny against Russian military leadership was aborted last week. As a part of a deal, President Vladimir Putin gave the fighters a choice of signing contracts with the Russian defence ministry, returning to civilian life or going into exile in Belarus. Zelensky, on Friday, said that he had been informed of the situation in Belarus by the Ukrainian intelligence service GUR, foreign intelligence services and border guards. "By the decision of the Stavka (chief of staff), Commander-in-Chief (Valery) Zaluzhny and General (Sergey) Nayev were instructed to strengthen the northern direction in order to guarantee peace. There are appropriate deadlines," the Ukraine leader said in a video posted on Telegram. Wagner mutineers 'can join army or go to Belarus': Putin Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address to the nation late on Monday, said that he would honour his promise to allow Wagner fighters to relocate to Belarus, if they wanted, or to sign a contract with the Defence Ministry or simply return to their families. Also read: Explained | How Lukashenko emerged as key player to resolve Wagner situation "I thank those soldiers and commanders of the Wagner Group who made the only right decision - they did not turn to fratricidal bloodshed, they stopped at the last line. Today, you have the opportunity to continue serving Russia by entering into a contract with the Ministry of Defence or other law enforcement agencies or to return to your family and friends. Whoever wants to, can go to Belarus. The promise I made will be fulfilled." He then thanked the Wagner mercenary fighters and commanders who had stood down to avoid bloodshed. “We knew and we know that the vast majority of the fighters and commanders of the Wagner Group are also Russian patriots, devoted to their people and state. They proved it with their courage on the battlefield, liberating the Donbas and Novorossiya. They tried to use them in the dark against their brothers-in-arms, with whom they fought together for the sake of the country and its future. Therefore, from the very beginning of the events, on my direct instructions, steps were taken to avoid a lot of bloodshed." Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko offered Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin refuge after he aborted the armed rebellion against Moscow a week ago. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Volodymyr Zelensky orders tighter security on Ukraine-Belarus border after arrival of Wagner fighters

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

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

Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko has asked Wagner Group mercenaries to the military of his country, in a new twist to the armed group's journey from Russia's pillar in the Ukraine war to the rebelled group and finally a unit exiled to Minsk, an ally of Moscow. 
 
According to state news agency Belta, Lukashenko said, “Unfortunately, they (Wagner mercenaries) are not here. “And if their instructors, as I already told them, come and pass on combat experience to us, we will accept this experience.” 
 
The proposal of Lukashenko comes just a week after he was given the credit for defusing Wagner forces' armed insurrection against Moscow. In a shocking series of events which seemed to threaten the position of Russian President Vladimir Putin in decades, Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin had marched towards Moscow along with his forces and taken control of military facilities in two cities of Russia.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-orders-tighter-security-at-ukraine-belarus-border-after-arrival-of-wagner-fighters-610721">Volodymyr Zelensky orders tighter security at Ukraine-Belarus border after arrival of Wagner fighters</a>

The crisis came to an end after Lukashenko successfully brokered a deal according to which Prigozhin had to move to Belarus. In the same deal, Wagner troops were given the option to either go to Belarus, sign up with the Russian military or law enforcement agencies, or go back to their family and friends. 
 
Lukashenko, in his speech, said that he did not fear the members of the Wagner Group and had “known them for a long time.” “These are people who fought all over the world to establish a normal civilisation. The West hates them to the core,” he added. 
 
He further warned a “world-scale military-political crisis unprecedented in the history of mankind” was brewing, and slammed the West for not understanding the need for dialogue to resolve the situation.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Is Russia's Wagner group setting up a secret training base in Belarus?

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The European Union and the United States were accused of “arming Poland at an accelerated pace” and claimed that the West was making Poland into “a proxy training ground” to use against Russia and Belarus. 
 
“Thus, another hotbed of tension is being created, another stronghold is being created for the aggression of the most aggressive country in the world and, unfortunately, the most powerful – the United States,” he stated.

<h2 lang="en-US">CIA director meets Zelensky</h2>

Recently, CIA Director William Burns visited Ukraine and held talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky and Ukrainian intelligence officials, as per a US official. 
 
Speaking to CNN, the official said, “Director Burns recently travelled to Ukraine, as he has done regularly since the beginning of Russia’s recent aggression more than a year ago. As with other trips, the director met with his Ukrainian intelligence counterparts and President Zelensky, reaffirming the US commitment to sharing intelligence to help Ukraine defend against Russian aggression.” 
 
He noted that Director Burns had travelled to Kyiv before the rebellion of Yevgeny Prigozhin.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko has asked Wagner Group mercenaries to the military of his country, in a new twist to the armed group's journey from Russia's pillar in the Ukraine war to the rebelled group and finally a unit exiled to Minsk, an ally of Moscow.

Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko has asked Wagner Group mercenaries to the military of his country, in a new twist to the armed group's journey from Russia's pillar in the Ukraine war to the rebelled group and finally a unit exiled to Minsk, an ally of Moscow. According to state news agency Belta, Lukashenko said, “Unfortunately, they (Wagner mercenaries) are not here. “And if their instructors, as I already told them, come and pass on combat experience to us, we will accept this experience.” The proposal of Lukashenko comes just a week after he was given the credit for defusing Wagner forces' armed insurrection against Moscow. In a shocking series of events which seemed to threaten the position of Russian President Vladimir Putin in decades, Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin had marched towards Moscow along with his forces and taken control of military facilities in two cities of Russia. ALSO READ | Volodymyr Zelensky orders tighter security at Ukraine-Belarus border after arrival of Wagner fighters The crisis came to an end after Lukashenko successfully brokered a deal according to which Prigozhin had to move to Belarus. In the same deal, Wagner troops were given the option to either go to Belarus, sign up with the Russian military or law enforcement agencies, or go back to their family and friends. Lukashenko, in his speech, said that he did not fear the members of the Wagner Group and had “known them for a long time.” “These are people who fought all over the world to establish a normal civilisation. The West hates them to the core,” he added. He further warned a “world-scale military-political crisis unprecedented in the history of mankind” was brewing, and slammed the West for not understanding the need for dialogue to resolve the situation. WATCH | Gravitas: Is Russia's Wagner group setting up a secret training base in Belarus? The European Union and the United States were accused of “arming Poland at an accelerated pace” and claimed that the West was making Poland into “a proxy training ground” to use against Russia and Belarus. “Thus, another hotbed of tension is being created, another stronghold is being created for the aggression of the most aggressive country in the world and, unfortunately, the most powerful – the United States,” he stated. CIA director meets Zelensky Recently, CIA Director William Burns visited Ukraine and held talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky and Ukrainian intelligence officials, as per a US official. Speaking to CNN, the official said, “Director Burns recently travelled to Ukraine, as he has done regularly since the beginning of Russia’s recent aggression more than a year ago. As with other trips, the director met with his Ukrainian intelligence counterparts and President Zelensky, reaffirming the US commitment to sharing intelligence to help Ukraine defend against Russian aggression.” He noted that Director Burns had travelled to Kyiv before the rebellion of Yevgeny Prigozhin. (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

Belarusian President Lukashenko asks Wagner army to train his military

Sergei Surovikin, nicknamed General Armageddon by Russian media for his ruthlessness, is among senior generals who have reportedly disappeared from public view. Soon after the mutiny, Surovikin appeared in a video, looking uncomfortable and breathing hard, and without insignia; urging Prigozhin to give up. Reports now suggest he was a secret VIP member of the Wagner private military company. The kremlin has pushed back against multiple reports. Here are some key facts about general Surovikin.

Russia's 'General Armageddon' secret VIP member of Wagner? | 'Surovikin in Moscow detention centre'

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

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

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

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

Russia's 'General Armageddon' secret VIP member of Wagner?

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

Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov offers to help put down Wagner mutiny

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

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

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

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

The Wagner Group is still recruiting mercenaries across Russia despite President Vladimir Putin's decree that the armed fighters of the group could either join military or leave for Belarus after the mutiny staged by Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin last Saturday.

According to the BBC, when its journalists called more than a dozen recruitment centres across Russia, it was found that there was business as usual for recruitment of potential Wagner fighters.

The publication reportedly called the purported Wagner recruitment centres using a Russian phone number and asked that they were inquiring on behalf of a brother.

From Kaliningrad in the west to Krasnodar in the south, no one believed the group was being disbanded, the report said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-rebellion-when-putins-former-chef-served-a-dish-of-treason-ten-points-608452">Wagner rebellion: When Putin’s former favourite chef served a dish of ‘treason’ | 10 points</a>

In Murmansk, a woman at the Viking sports club confirmed to the publication that she was still signing up Wagner fighters for Ukraine.

"That's where we are recruiting for, yes. If someone wants to go, they just have to call me and we will set a day," the woman was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

<h2>New Wagner members not signing contracts with Russian defence ministry</h2>

The BBC report said that several people at recruitment centres stressed that new members were signing contracts with the mercenary group itself, and not the Russian defence ministry which used to be the case before last Saturday.

"It's absolutely nothing to do with the defence ministry," a man at the Sparta sports club in Volgograd was quoted as saying.

"Nothing has stopped, we are still recruiting."

The Wagner Group rebelled against Moscow's military leadership last week after demands for transfer of its control from Yevgeny Prigozhin to the country's defence ministry.

<h2>Gen. Sergey Surovikin secret VIP member of Wagner Group: Report</h2>

Meanwhile, a CNN report claimed that Russian General Sergey Surovikin was a secret VIP member of the Wagner Group and was simultaneously working with Russian military as well as Yevgeny Prigozhin's mercenary group.

Surovikin, who has&nbsp;not been seen in public since last Saturday, is listed along with at least 30 other senior Russian military and intelligence officials, who is said to be a VIP Wagner member.

Surovikin released a video last week pleading for Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin to stop his insurrection.

His whereabouts have since remained unknown.

Also watch |&nbsp;Was the Wagner Mutiny a double game?

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Wagner's rebellion emerged as the biggest challenge to President Putin's authority in his over two-decade rule.&nbsp;The said&nbsp;rebellion lasted&nbsp;a little less than 36 hours and ended after Belarus brokered a peace deal, following which the Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin&nbsp;—&nbsp;also a former chef to President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;—&nbsp;announced that he was pulling his troops back to their bases.&nbsp;&nbsp;

All the criminal case against the mutineers were later&nbsp;dropped.

Wagner fighters who did not participate in the mutiny have been&nbsp;signing the contracts of allegiance with the Russian Ministry of Defence.

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The Wagner Group is still recruiting mercenaries across Russia despite President Vladimir Putin's decree that the armed fighters of the group could either join military or leave for Belarus after the mutiny staged by Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin last Saturday.

The Wagner Group is still recruiting mercenaries across Russia despite President Vladimir Putin's decree that the armed fighters of the group could either join military or leave for Belarus after the mutiny staged by Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin last Saturday. According to the BBC, when its journalists called more than a dozen recruitment centres across Russia, it was found that there was business as usual for recruitment of potential Wagner fighters. The publication reportedly called the purported Wagner recruitment centres using a Russian phone number and asked that they were inquiring on behalf of a brother. From Kaliningrad in the west to Krasnodar in the south, no one believed the group was being disbanded, the report said. Also read | Wagner rebellion: When Putin’s former favourite chef served a dish of ‘treason’ | 10 points In Murmansk, a woman at the Viking sports club confirmed to the publication that she was still signing up Wagner fighters for Ukraine. "That's where we are recruiting for, yes. If someone wants to go, they just have to call me and we will set a day," the woman was quoted as saying. New Wagner members not signing contracts with Russian defence ministry The BBC report said that several people at recruitment centres stressed that new members were signing contracts with the mercenary group itself, and not the Russian defence ministry which used to be the case before last Saturday. "It's absolutely nothing to do with the defence ministry," a man at the Sparta sports club in Volgograd was quoted as saying. "Nothing has stopped, we are still recruiting." The Wagner Group rebelled against Moscow's military leadership last week after demands for transfer of its control from Yevgeny Prigozhin to the country's defence ministry. Gen. Sergey Surovikin secret VIP member of Wagner Group: Report Meanwhile, a CNN report claimed that Russian General Sergey Surovikin was a secret VIP member of the Wagner Group and was simultaneously working with Russian military as well as Yevgeny Prigozhin's mercenary group. Surovikin, who has not been seen in public since last Saturday, is listed along with at least 30 other senior Russian military and intelligence officials, who is said to be a VIP Wagner member. Surovikin released a video last week pleading for Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin to stop his insurrection. His whereabouts have since remained unknown. Also watch | Was the Wagner Mutiny a double game? × Wagner's rebellion emerged as the biggest challenge to President Putin's authority in his over two-decade rule. The said rebellion lasted a little less than 36 hours and ended after Belarus brokered a peace deal, following which the Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin — also a former chef to President Vladimir Putin — announced that he was pulling his troops back to their bases. All the criminal case against the mutineers were later dropped. Wagner fighters who did not participate in the mutiny have been signing the contracts of allegiance with the Russian Ministry of Defence. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Wagner Group not disbanded yet, recruitment continues across Russia: Report

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

Wagner Chief in Belarus after aborting mission

The EU's top diplomat warned Thursday that a "weaker" Russian President Vladimir Putin would pose a "greater danger" after Wagner's aborted mutiny sparked the largest political crisis in decades in the nuclear-armed country. Until now we were looking at Russia as a threat because it was a lot of force and force has been used in Ukraine. Now we have to look at Russia as a risk because of internal instability," Borrell

Wagner mutiny: Weaker Putin is a great danger, says EU's Borrel

The man was identified by facial recognition software as 33-year-old Sergei Shirshov, a native of the Volga River city of Saratov. On VKontakte, Shirshov's profile picture is of a Wagner Group shoulder patch.

Wagner mutineers included Russian convicts freed to fight in Ukraine?

Two of Russia's top military generals have gone missing. One of them was in-charge of Russia's war in Ukraine, and the other was formerly in command of the war. The Kremlin says it has no information of the generals' whereabouts. What happened to them? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Russia's missing military generals | What happened to 'General Armageddon'?

Wagner chief and founder of&nbsp;the private military company (PMC)&nbsp;Yevgeny Prigozhin declined to sign a contract with the Russian defence&nbsp;ministry which has led to the termination of the PMC's involvement in the "special military operation" in Ukraine, media reports said quoting&nbsp;State Duma's Defense Committee chairman Andrey Kartapolov.

Earlier, the Russian defence ministry had announced that all groups and units involved in combat tasks needed to sign a contract with the ministry.

While most complied, Prigozhin chose not to, resulting in the exclusion of PMC Wagner from the ongoing war in Ukraine. As a consequence, funding and supplies for the PMC were withheld, a matter of significant importance to Prigozhin for being able to continue to wage its war on the Ukrainian battlefield.&nbsp;

Kartapolov explained that the attempted mutiny occurred due to a combination of factors. First and foremost was the issue of money, followed by Prigozhin's unreasonable and excessive ambitions, and finally, an agitated mental state. These factors collectively led to an act of high treason and betrayal against his fellow soldiers, he pointed out.&nbsp;

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"Everyone began to carry out this decision, an absolutely correct one. Everyone except Mr Prigozhin," Kartapolov said, adding, "Then he was told that in this case, PMC Wagner would not take part in the special military operation. In other words, there will be no funding or supplies. Mr. Prigozhin this is an important thing, if not the main one."&nbsp;

Over the armed revolt by Wagner,&nbsp;Kartapolov said, "It came down to this: in the first place there was money; second, some stupid and exorbitant ambitions; and thirdly, an agitated state of mind. All of this combined evolved into an attempt at high treason and the deception of his comrades-in-arms."&nbsp;

<h2>What was Russian defence ministry's directive?&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

On June 10, the Russian Defense Ministry issued a directive aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of volunteer units within the combined group of forces.

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Russian Defence Minister Sergei&nbsp;Shoigu signed an order outlining the procedure for organising the routine activities of these volunteer groups.

According to the directive, volunteers are required to sign contracts with the defence ministry by July 1, thereby obtaining legal status and ensuring standardised approaches to supplies and task execution.

<h2>Attempted military mutiny</h2>

On the evening of June 23, Yevgeny Prigozhin claimed on his Telegram channel that his units had been attacked by Russia's military leadership.

However, the Russian defence ministry refuted these allegations and termed them false. Some PMC Wagner units who supported Prigozhin started heading towards Rostov-on-Don and Moscow.

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The Federal Security Service (FSB) initiated legal proceedings against them for inciting armed mutiny. Later, Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address, labelled the actions of PMC Wagner as treason.

<h2>Negotiations&nbsp;</h2>

Following discussions between Putin and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Prigozhin's convoys turned back and returned to their field camps.&nbsp;Lukashenko disclosed that he had proposed the use of an abandoned military garrison in Belarus as a field camp for PMC Wagner.

He assured Prigozhin of complete security and pledged to facilitate the relocation of PMC forces to Belarus.

The Kremlin later announced that PMC personnel would not face prosecution for their participation in the mutiny. The FSB terminated the criminal proceedings related to the attempted armed mutiny.

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Wagner chief and founder of the private military company (PMC) Yevgeny Prigozhin declined to sign a contract with the Russian defence ministry which has led to the termination of the PMC's involvement in the "special military operation" in Ukraine, media reports said quoting State Duma's Defense Committee chairman Andrey Kartapolov.

Wagner chief and founder of the private military company (PMC) Yevgeny Prigozhin declined to sign a contract with the Russian defence ministry which has led to the termination of the PMC's involvement in the "special military operation" in Ukraine, media reports said quoting State Duma's Defense Committee chairman Andrey Kartapolov. Earlier, the Russian defence ministry had announced that all groups and units involved in combat tasks needed to sign a contract with the ministry. While most complied, Prigozhin chose not to, resulting in the exclusion of PMC Wagner from the ongoing war in Ukraine. As a consequence, funding and supplies for the PMC were withheld, a matter of significant importance to Prigozhin for being able to continue to wage its war on the Ukrainian battlefield. Kartapolov explained that the attempted mutiny occurred due to a combination of factors. First and foremost was the issue of money, followed by Prigozhin's unreasonable and excessive ambitions, and finally, an agitated mental state. These factors collectively led to an act of high treason and betrayal against his fellow soldiers, he pointed out. Also Read | British court declares govt’s plan to send migrants to Rwanda unlawful "Everyone began to carry out this decision, an absolutely correct one. Everyone except Mr Prigozhin," Kartapolov said, adding, "Then he was told that in this case, PMC Wagner would not take part in the special military operation. In other words, there will be no funding or supplies. Mr. Prigozhin this is an important thing, if not the main one." Over the armed revolt by Wagner, Kartapolov said, "It came down to this: in the first place there was money; second, some stupid and exorbitant ambitions; and thirdly, an agitated state of mind. All of this combined evolved into an attempt at high treason and the deception of his comrades-in-arms." What was Russian defence ministry's directive? On June 10, the Russian Defense Ministry issued a directive aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of volunteer units within the combined group of forces. Also Read | Indian-Origin man jailed for smuggling over 800 Indians into US using Uber Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu signed an order outlining the procedure for organising the routine activities of these volunteer groups. According to the directive, volunteers are required to sign contracts with the defence ministry by July 1, thereby obtaining legal status and ensuring standardised approaches to supplies and task execution. Attempted military mutiny On the evening of June 23, Yevgeny Prigozhin claimed on his Telegram channel that his units had been attacked by Russia's military leadership. However, the Russian defence ministry refuted these allegations and termed them false. Some PMC Wagner units who supported Prigozhin started heading towards Rostov-on-Don and Moscow. Watch | Tarang shakti, India's largest multilateral air exercise to be held this year × The Federal Security Service (FSB) initiated legal proceedings against them for inciting armed mutiny. Later, Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a televised address, labelled the actions of PMC Wagner as treason. Negotiations Following discussions between Putin and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Prigozhin's convoys turned back and returned to their field camps. Lukashenko disclosed that he had proposed the use of an abandoned military garrison in Belarus as a field camp for PMC Wagner. He assured Prigozhin of complete security and pledged to facilitate the relocation of PMC forces to Belarus. The Kremlin later announced that PMC personnel would not face prosecution for their participation in the mutiny. The FSB terminated the criminal proceedings related to the attempted armed 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. ×

Wagner's participation in Ukraine war ends as Prigozhin refuses to sign Russian defense ministry contract

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

Is Russia's general Sergei Surovikin facing repercussions for facilitating mutiny

Where is Russia's general Sergei Surovikin?

General Sergei Surovikin, the deputy commander of Russia’s military operations in Ukraine, was detained by the Russian authorities after he went briefly missing following the short-lived rebellion of the Wagner’s forces, Moscow Times newspaper reported citing sources.

Surovikin, nicknamed "General Armageddon" by the Russian press for his aggressive tactics in the Syrian conflict, is a decorated soldier and a veteran of Russia’s wars in Chechnya and Syria. It is said that he is a close friend of&nbsp;Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin.

He was last seen on Saturday when he appeared in a video appealing to mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin to halt his mutiny.

The newspaper citing two sources close to Russia’s Defence Ministry, reported that Surovikin was arrested on Wednesday because he “chose” Wagner chief Yevgeny “Prigozhin’s side during the uprising”.

It is also being reported that Surovikin was aware of Prigozhin’s coup plans, but did not alert the top brass in the Russian defence ministry.

A Russian military blogger, Vladimir Romanov, also reported Surovikin’s arrest on Wednesday, the Moscow Times reported.

Additionally, there are also reports of the arrest of the military “affiliates” of Surovikin who had been “accused of complicity in the rebellion”.

<h2>Kremlin’s response</h2>

During a press conference on Thursday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov did not provide information about the reports of Surovikin’s detention and referred the matter to the defence ministry, which has yet to make a statement.

Asked by reporters if the Kremlin could clarify the situation with Surovikin, Peskov said: "No, unfortunately not."

"So, I recommend that you contact the defence ministry; this is its prerogative," he said, according to Reuters news agency.

When a reporter asked if President Vladimir Putin still continued to trust Surovikin, Peskov said, "He is the supreme commander-in-chief and he works with the defence minister and with the chief of the General Staff."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-vladimir-putin-wanted-to-kill-wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-but-stopped-heres-how-609686">Vladimir Putin wanted to kill Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin but stopped. Here's what happened</a>

Questions about "structural units within the ministry," Peskov said, should be addressed to the defence ministry.

When asked about Prigozhin's whereabouts, Peskov said he did not have information about the Wagner chief’s location at the current time.

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<h2>What will happen to Wagner's troops?</h2>

On Monday, the Russian Defence Ministry said that preparations are underway for Wagner's troops, who numbered 25,000, to hand over their heavy weapons to the Russian military.&nbsp;

Prigozhin had said those moves were being taken ahead of a July 1 deadline for his fighters to sign contracts to serve under the Russian military's command.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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General Sergei Surovikin, the deputy commander of Russia’s military operations in Ukraine, was detained by the Russian authorities after he went briefly missing following the short-lived rebellion of the Wagner’s forces, Moscow Times newspaper reported citing sources.

General Sergei Surovikin, the deputy commander of Russia’s military operations in Ukraine, was detained by the Russian authorities after he went briefly missing following the short-lived rebellion of the Wagner’s forces, Moscow Times newspaper reported citing sources. Surovikin, nicknamed "General Armageddon" by the Russian press for his aggressive tactics in the Syrian conflict, is a decorated soldier and a veteran of Russia’s wars in Chechnya and Syria. It is said that he is a close friend of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin. He was last seen on Saturday when he appeared in a video appealing to mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin to halt his mutiny. The newspaper citing two sources close to Russia’s Defence Ministry, reported that Surovikin was arrested on Wednesday because he “chose” Wagner chief Yevgeny “Prigozhin’s side during the uprising”. It is also being reported that Surovikin was aware of Prigozhin’s coup plans, but did not alert the top brass in the Russian defence ministry. A Russian military blogger, Vladimir Romanov, also reported Surovikin’s arrest on Wednesday, the Moscow Times reported. Additionally, there are also reports of the arrest of the military “affiliates” of Surovikin who had been “accused of complicity in the rebellion”. Kremlin’s response During a press conference on Thursday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov did not provide information about the reports of Surovikin’s detention and referred the matter to the defence ministry, which has yet to make a statement. Asked by reporters if the Kremlin could clarify the situation with Surovikin, Peskov said: "No, unfortunately not." "So, I recommend that you contact the defence ministry; this is its prerogative," he said, according to Reuters news agency. When a reporter asked if President Vladimir Putin still continued to trust Surovikin, Peskov said, "He is the supreme commander-in-chief and he works with the defence minister and with the chief of the General Staff." Also read | Vladimir Putin wanted to kill Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin but stopped. Here's what happened Questions about "structural units within the ministry," Peskov said, should be addressed to the defence ministry. When asked about Prigozhin's whereabouts, Peskov said he did not have information about the Wagner chief’s location at the current time. Also read | Nepali Gurkhas joining Wagner group while eyeing Russian citizenship: Report What will happen to Wagner's troops? On Monday, the Russian Defence Ministry said that preparations are underway for Wagner's troops, who numbered 25,000, to hand over their heavy weapons to the Russian military. Prigozhin had said those moves were being taken ahead of a July 1 deadline for his fighters to sign contracts to serve under the Russian military's command. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russian general who went missing after Wagner’s uprising arrested: Report

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

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

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

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

As Russia recovers from Wagner's short rebellion, there is a new focus on the rise of private armies. They have been used in many conflict around the world but the bigger question that arises here is how much of a threat are they to the global world order and can they be stopped?

How are private armies a threat to global world order?

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

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

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

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

Wagner mutiny: Putin shaken but mot stirred?

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