Russia plans to continue using loyal Wagner Group soldiers in war – UK Intelligence
UK intelligence has suggested that the Kremlin plans to continue cooperation with loyal representatives of the Wagner Private Military Company (PMC) after its leadership is believed to have died in a plane crash.
Source: UK Ministry of Defence Intelligence update on 30 September, as reported by European Pravda
Details: Intelligence noted that on 29 September, Russia published a video of President Putin meeting with Andrei Troshev, the former representative of the Wagner Group's leadership, and instructing him to create new "volunteer fighting units". Yunus-bek Yevkurov, Deputy Russian Defence Minister, was also present at the meeting.
When Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner Group's leader, started his rebellion, Troshev probably encouraged the Wagner Group soldiers to sign contracts. Intelligence suggested that Wagner fighters consider him a traitor now.
Meanwhile, Yevkurov has likely visited Africa several times.
"Presidential endorsement of Troshev and Yevkurov indicates Russia’s continuing utilisation of volunteer units and private military companies, and planning for the future of Wagner. It is prepared to draw on the experience of veterans who can demonstrate their loyalty to the state and continued involvement in the Global South, but probably with greater oversight from the Kremlin," the UK intelligence supposed.
Background:
- On 29 September, UK Defence Intelligence confirmed information that Wagner Group fighters have begun to be deployed in Ukraine again.
- Before that, Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin stated that a sizable number of Wagner Group fighters were maintaining a significant presence in African countries.
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