In his first comment on the military rebellion declared by Wagner Group commander Yevgeny Prigozhin, Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed that the response to any rebellion will be strict, decisive, and harsh.
During a televised speech broadcasted on the country’s official channels last Saturday, Putin described these actions as a betrayal and a stab in the back, further highlighting that Wagner Group members have been led into an armed rebellion.
In a resolute tone, the Russian President emphasized that anyone who takes up arms against the army is a traitor. He stated, “Our response to these threats will be strict and severe for those who have betrayed.” Putin regarded the organizers of the rebellion as betrayers of Russia and emphasized that they will face severe punishment.
Furthermore, Putin affirmed that the army will defend the state and its citizens against all threats, including “traitors from within,” as he referred to Prigozhin.