In a significant development, the Kremlin announced on Monday that Russian President Vladimir Putin had a meeting with Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin on 29 June at the Kremlin, just days after the mercenary group’s unsuccessful attempt to overthrow Russia’s military leadership.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that during the meeting, President Putin provided his assessment of the events that unfolded on 24 June, and he also listened to accounts given by Wagner commanders.
Despite over two weeks passing since the failed mutiny, there remains considerable uncertainty regarding the fate of the Wagner group and the details of the agreement that brought an end to the rebellion against Russia’s top military brass.
As per the plan, Prigozhin and some of his fighters were expected to be exiled to Belarus, while Wagner troops who wished to continue fighting for Russia would sign contracts with the conventional army.
During the three-and-a-half-hour meeting at the Kremlin, President Putin reportedly offered alternative employment options to the Wagner commanders, including potential combat roles.
Observers view the rebellion as the most significant challenge to Putin’s authority since he assumed power.
Peskov emphasised that the Wagner commanders reiterated their staunch support for the Russian head of state and expressed their readiness to continue fighting for their homeland.
However, on Thursday, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, who played a role as a mediator in the agreement with Wagner, stated that neither Prigozhin nor his men were present in Belarus.
The situation surrounding the Wagner group and the aftermath of the mutiny continue to unfold with many questions yet to be answered.
