Introduction: Wagner Boss Yevgeny Prigozhin Suspected in Fatal Crash
Russia’s civil aviation authority reveals that Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the controversial private military group Wagner, was listed as a passenger on a crashed jet, resulting in the tragic death of all on board. An initial report by a Wagner-linked Telegram channel, Grey Zone, suggested the possibility of the plane being shot down by air defenses. The aircraft, owned by Prigozhin, was en route from Moscow to St Petersburg, carrying seven passengers and three crew members. This incident follows Prigozhin’s recent involvement in an unsuccessful mutiny against the Russian armed forces.
Crash Details and Conjectures
The ill-fated flight was reportedly bound for St Petersburg but met its demise near the village of Kuzhenkino in the Tver region, midway between the two Russian cities. Eyewitnesses in the area claim to have heard two distinct sounds before witnessing the aircraft’s crash, accompanied by visible vapor trails. Russian news agency Tass reported that Prigozhin’s Embraer Legacy caught fire upon impact with the ground. The crash occurred within half an hour of takeoff, prompting the launch of an official investigation as well as search operations by emergency services.
Wagner and Prigozhin’s Background
Prigozhin, 62, gained notoriety as the founder of Wagner in 2014, an influential private military group consisting of approximately 25,000 fighters. The organization has engaged in operations across Ukraine, Syria, and West Africa, earning a reputation for its often brutal tactics. Recently, Prigozhin orchestrated a mutiny in June, moving Wagner troops from Ukraine to capture the Russian city of Rostov on Don and even threatened to march on Moscow. The discord was eventually resolved through a deal allowing Wagner forces to transition to Belarus or join the Russian military.
Speculation Surrounding Prigozhin’s Fate
Despite the agreement, doubts persisted over Prigozhin’s safety, and his recent involvement in this fatal crash only intensifies the intrigue. While not definitive proof of a targeted attack, given the circumstances, suspicions are likely to arise over any claims suggesting his death was accidental. His challenge to Russia’s defense establishment prompted a strong reaction from President Vladimir Putin, branding it as betrayal. Prigozhin’s recent actions have sparked attention, leading some to describe him as a “dead man walking.” As news of his possible death spreads, US President Joe Biden expresses that he is “not surprised,” hinting at the volatility surrounding Prigozhin’s situation.
SOURCE: Ref Image from News24
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