WASHINGTON – A preliminary U.S. intelligence assessment has indicated that the plane crash, believed to have killed Russian mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, was intentionally caused by an explosion, according to anonymous U.S. and Western officials. The assessment suggests that Prigozhin was likely targeted, aligning with Vladimir Putin’s history of silencing critics.
While details of the explosion remain undisclosed, no evidence has suggested a surface-to-air missile attack. Prigozhin and several of his associates were reportedly on the plane, and some sources within the Wagner group claim that the crash was a deliberate act, possibly the result of a missile strike or an onboard bomb.
Putin expressed condolences to the families of those onboard and acknowledged Prigozhin’s “serious mistakes.” The Wagner military company founder had played a significant role in Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Putin emphasized that Prigozhin made “serious mistakes in life” but had been a talented man who achieved results.
Several high-ranking members of Wagner were onboard the ill-fated flight, sparking questions about their joint trip’s purpose. Their presence raised speculation about deliberate targeting.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation by Russian authorities, and the facts surrounding the incident are still unclear. Critics have raised concerns about the pattern of deaths and dubious suicides among Putin’s opponents and critics, further fueling suspicions about Prigozhin’s plane crash. International leaders, including Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, have pointed fingers at Putin’s regime.
Prigozhin’s mutiny, which challenged Putin’s authority and resulted in the downing of several Russian aircraft, had initially ended with a deal that included amnesty for him and his mercenaries. However, his recent actions had caused growing tensions, leading to speculation that Putin had to act against him.
Videos of the plane crash showed the aircraft falling dramatically, consistent with an explosion mid-flight. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.
This event adds to the history of controversial deaths and accidents involving Russian critics and opposition figures. The situation remains fluid, and updates may follow as more information becomes available.