Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin has initiated what he terms a "march of justice" against Russia's defense leadership, prompting a criminal investigation and heightened security measures in Moscow. Prigozhin accuses Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu of ordering a missile strike on Wagner camps in Ukraine, an allegation the ministry denies.
Prigozhin's accusations, delivered through a series of audio and video messages, condemn Shoigu and the military leadership, vowing to hold them accountable. He insists this action isn't a coup but a necessary step to rectify the wrongs inflicted upon his forces.
The Russian government responded swiftly, with the FSB (Federal Security Service) launching a criminal investigation into Prigozhin for inciting armed rebellion. President Putin has been briefed on the unfolding events. The National Anti-Terrorism Committee has called Prigozhin's claims baseless and demanded an immediate cessation of his actions.
Moscow has deployed National Guard units and riot police to safeguard critical infrastructure and government buildings in the capital. Checkpoints have been established on the M-4 highway leading south from Rostov-on-Don, with vehicles being redirected back into the city.
The National Security Council in the United States is monitoring the situation and consulting with allies. President Biden has also been briefed.
Rebekah Koffler, a former DIA intelligence officer, suggests Prigozhin's confrontation with the FSB represents a significant escalation. She believes this poses a serious challenge for Putin and raises concerns about potential civil unrest within Russia.
Koffler cautions against any actions that might further destabilize Russia, emphasizing the potential for unintended consequences.
Former CIA station chief Dan Hoffman points to the heavy losses suffered by the Wagner Group in Bakhmut as a key driver of Prigozhin's actions. He believes Prigozhin feels compelled to hold someone accountable and is under immense pressure from his own ranks.
The situation remains dynamic and its ultimate outcome is uncertain.
