Kremlin asserts Putin’s meeting with Prigozhin shortly after failed coup in Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin Meets with Paramilitary Leader Yevgeny Prigozhin

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently held a meeting with paramilitary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, following the latter’s failed mutiny attempt. The Kremlin spokesperson confirmed this encounter, shedding light on the discussions that took place.

Prigozhin’s Grievances and the Mutiny

Prigozhin, the founder of the Wagner Group, publicly expressed his dissatisfaction with top Russian military leaders. He accused them of withholding essential supplies from his troops, who were at the forefront of Russia’s war in Ukraine. In late June, Prigozhin attempted to capture two high-ranking military leaders, but his plan was thwarted.

The Meeting between Putin and Prigozhin

The meeting between Putin and Prigozhin occurred on June 29, just five days after the mutiny ended. Lasting approximately three hours, the gathering included nearly three dozen attendees, including Prigozhin and his unit commanders.

“The only thing we can say is that the president gave his assessment of the company’s actions at the front during the special military operation [in Ukraine] and also gave his assessment of the events of 24 June [the day of the mutiny],” stated Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.

Peskov further explained, “The commanders outlined their version of what happened. They emphasized that they are staunch supporters and soldiers of the head of state and the supreme commander in chief. They also said that they are ready to continue fighting for the motherland.”

Resolution and Questions

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko played a crucial role in brokering a truce between Putin and Prigozhin. However, the success of Prigozhin’s troops in briefly taking control of Rostov-on-Don and a military headquarters building raised concerns about Russia’s forces.

The whereabouts and involvement of Russian Gen. Sergey Surovikin, who had prior knowledge of Prigozhin’s plans, remain unknown. Reports suggest that Surovikin may have been arrested.

Wagner Group’s Influence in Africa

The Wagner Group extends its operations and influence to several African nations, acting on behalf of Russia’s interests. Despite the recent mutiny attempt, top Kremlin leaders have stated that the group will continue its activities in Africa.

U.S. officials have expressed ongoing concerns about the Wagner Group’s influence in Africa. National Security Council coordinator John Kirby highlighted their infiltration of countries like the Central African Republic and Mali, where they undermine sovereignty, exploit natural resources, and perpetrate violence.

Kirby revealed that the Malian transition government has paid over $200 million to the Wagner Group since late 2021. He also alleged, without providing evidence, that Prigozhin and his forces attempted to “eliminate” an African leader from Chad.

Despite these events, the Wagner Group’s intent to exploit African countries remains unchanged.

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