Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made a startling accusation, asserting that Russian President Vladimir Putin played a role in the death of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary group. Prigozhin and nine others lost their lives in a plane crash on August 23 while flying from Moscow to Saint Petersburg.
In a speech, President Zelenskyy stated, “He killed Prigozhin, at least we all have this information and not any other.” This claim has added a new layer of tension to the already fraught relationship between Ukraine and Russia.
Zelenskyy further suggested that this incident revealed Putin’s current state of political vulnerability, characterizing the Russian leader as “politically weak.”
Yevgeny Prigozhin had been the head of the Wagner mercenary group, a paramilitary organization that has reportedly been involved in various conflicts around the world. Notably, Prigozhin had openly challenged Russia’s military high command just two months prior to his death. He led a brief mutiny with his fighters, posing a significant challenge to Putin’s rule and threatening to escalate into a civil conflict.
However, the rebellion was abruptly called off, seemingly as a result of a deal struck with the Kremlin, facilitated through Belarusian mediation. Curiously, Prigozhin did not face criminal prosecution for his role in the mutiny.
The circumstances surrounding Prigozhin’s plane crash have given rise to numerous speculations and theories. Some observers have questioned whether the crash was orchestrated in retaliation for the Wagner group’s actions, including their march on Moscow in June.
Russian investigators have taken a comprehensive approach to their inquiry, examining various scenarios surrounding the crash, including the possibility of premeditated murder. The Kremlin, on its part, has dismissed allegations of involvement in the crash, emphasizing the ongoing investigation.
The accusation made by President Zelenskyy adds a new layer of complexity to the already strained relations between Russia and Ukraine, underscoring the broader geopolitical tensions in the region. As investigations continue, the circumstances surrounding Yevgeny Prigozhin’s tragic demise remain a subject of international interest and scrutiny.