Headline: Putin Acknowledges Wagner Group Leader’s Passing and Offers Condolences for Moscow Plane Crash
Russian President Vladimir Putin broke his silence after 24 hours following the tragic plane crash near Moscow that claimed multiple lives, including that of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the chief of the Wagner Group. Putin commended Prigozhin as a “talented businessman” and extended his condolences to the families affected by the incident.
In his statement, Putin revealed his longstanding acquaintance with Mr. Prigozhin dating back to the 1990s. However, he emphasized the need to await the results of the official investigation into the crash before drawing conclusions about its cause.
The crash, resulting in the deaths of 10 individuals, has prompted widespread speculation that it could be linked to an attempt on Prigozhin’s life. In June, Prigozhin’s mutiny against Putin had posed a challenge to the Russian president’s authority.
Preliminary information from US officials suggests that the plane might have been shot down by a surface-to-air missile originating from within Russia. The incident has further escalated tensions between the two nations.
Prior to the crash, a video surfaced featuring masked individuals claiming affiliation with the Wagner Group. In the video, they issued a warning to the Kremlin, suggesting impending actions from the group. “There is a growing buzz regarding the Wagner group’s intentions. We wish to convey one message: our actions are underway, and readiness on your part is advised,” the individuals cautioned.
