…By Henry George for TDPel Media.
Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the nation, expressing his dismay over the armed rebellion led by the chief of the Wagner mercenary group, Yevgeny Prigozhin.
He labeled the rebellion as a betrayal and pledged to defend the people and the nation of Russia.
The rebellion, which had reached the key city of Rostov-on-Don, had obstructed civilian and military governing bodies in the southern city.
Putin warned that Russia is now facing a critical battle for its future.
The Rebellion Threatens Statehood:
According to Putin, the mutiny orchestrated by the Wagner group poses a deadly threat to the statehood of Russia.
He vowed to respond with firm actions and assured the armed forces and government agencies that necessary orders had been issued to address the rebellion.
Putin condemned the actions of Prigozhin, without explicitly mentioning him, as a betrayal and treason.
He called upon those involved in the criminal acts to cease their participation, emphasizing the gravity of their choices.
Prigozhin’s Claims and Putin’s Response:
Yevgeny Prigozhin, the owner of the Wagner private military company, boasted that his forces now controlled military facilities in Rostov-on-Don.
Through video and audio recordings posted on social media, Prigozhin declared determination to destroy anyone who opposed their advance.
In the face of these claims, Putin reaffirmed the severity of the rebellion, highlighting the ongoing battle for Russia’s future and the unified efforts required to overcome external challenges.
He regarded the armed rebellion during such a crucial time as a significant blow to the nation and its people, asserting that those responsible would be held accountable.
Security Measures and Uncertainties:
Russia’s security services responded by calling for the arrest of Prigozhin in response to his declaration of armed rebellion.
The Kremlin’s heightened security measures in Moscow, Rostov-on-Don, and other regions demonstrated the seriousness with which they regarded the threat.
It remains unclear how Prigozhin managed to enter the southern city and the number of troops under his command.
Prigozhin alleged that Wagner field camps in Ukraine had been targeted by hostile actions, but independent verification of these claims was lacking.
Implications for the Conflict and Putin’s Leadership:
The outcome of the confrontation between Prigozhin’s rebellion and the Russian authorities remains uncertain.
However, it is likely to impede Moscow’s war efforts, as Ukrainian forces were probing Russian defenses in the initial stages of a counter-offensive.
The resolution of this dispute, particularly if Prigozhin were to prevail, could have significant repercussions for Putin’s leadership and his ability to maintain a united front in Russia.