Chief Wagner Returns to Russia

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner Group, recently traveled to Belarus as part of a deal to resolve the mercenary group’s mutiny against Russian military leadership. Despite speculations of foul play, Prigozhin is now confirmed to be back in Russia, according to Alexander Lukashenko, the Belarusian president. Lukashenko stated in a press conference that “Prigozhin is in St. Petersburg. He is not on the territory of Belarus,” as reported by the Guardian. It is uncertain whether Prigozhin was present during subsequent flights between St. Petersburg and Moscow, and the Kremlin has asserted that they are not tracking his movements, as per the BBC. Lukashenko also mentioned that Wagner fighters are still stationed in Russia and occupied areas of Ukraine, with the possibility of them relocating to Belarus still up for consideration. Despite concerns, Lukashenko is confident that Wagner fighters will not destabilize Belarus.

According to Russian media, Prigozhin is currently in St. Petersburg to attend to his business affairs in the city, which includes retrieving cash that was seized during raids on his home and Wagner offices, as reported by the AP. Russian state TV recently showcased the discoveries made in what they described as Prigozhin’s “palace,” including cash, gold bars, wigs, and other items, as per the BBC. After a period of silence, Prigozhin issued a brief statement on Monday. (Read more Yevgeny Prigozhin stories.)