A video was released today showcasing Russian mercenary leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, speaking to his troops in Belarus. In the video, Prigozhin announces that they will spend some time in Belarus training its military before being deployed to Africa. The authenticity of the video has yet to be verified.
Prigozhin gained notoriety last month when he led a short-lived rebellion against top military leaders in Russia, accusing them of incompetence. In the new video, he reiterates his criticisms of the conduct of the fighting in Ukraine.
“We need to wait for the right moment to show ourselves fully,” Prigozhin says in the video. “That’s why we’re spending time in Belarus, to train and raise our level before embarking on a new journey to Africa.”
Since its creation in 2014, Wagner mercenaries, led by Prigozhin, have been involved in conflicts in Ukraine, Syria, and several African countries. As part of a deal brokered by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Prigozhin agreed to end his rebellion in exchange for amnesty and the opportunity to relocate to Belarus. Wagner mercenaries handed over their weapons to the Russian military before moving to Belarus.
Satellite photos and reports from activist group Belaruski Hajun indicate that Wagner convoys have been entering Belarus in recent weeks. It is estimated that approximately 2,500 Wagner mercenaries are currently in the country.
Russian and Wagner flags were lowered at their main home base in Molkino, Russia, and the base is expected to close at the end of July. The mercenaries will be moving to new undisclosed locations.
Lukashenko has welcomed the mercenaries to Belarus, stating that the country’s military could benefit from their combat experience. Belarusian state TV has even broadcast footage of Wagner instructors training the country’s territorial defense forces.
Prigozhin expressed gratitude for the warm reception in Belarus, adding with laughter that “local girls are whispering with desire that Wagner troops have arrived.” He urged his troops to treat the locals with respect.
In his rebellion last month, Prigozhin’s mercenaries captured the military headquarters in Rostov-on-Don, Russia, without resistance. They advanced as close as 200 kilometers to Moscow, downing military helicopters and killing airmen before striking a deal to end the rebellion.
Russian President Vladimir Putin offered Wagner troops the choice to sign contracts with the Defense Ministry, move to Belarus, or retire from service. Prigozhin and 34 Wagner officers met with Putin on June 29, where he offered them the option to continue serving as a unit under their current commander.
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