Former Russian commander warns Putin of 'military mutiny'

Igor Girkin, a former Russian commander, has issued a warning to President Vladimir Putin that the Wagner Group, a private military unit led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, may stage a “military mutiny” against him.

Prigozhin reportedly threatened to withdraw his soldiers from Bakhmut, which could have serious consequences for Russia ahead of Ukraine’s counteroffensive this spring.

Head of Wagner Group Threatens Mutiny Unless Russia Sends More Ammunition https://t.co/MMpDf9lIci

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Girkin criticized Prigozhin’s actions, stating that it amounts to “military mutiny” if soldiers are withdrawn from the front without the high command’s consent.

While the Wagner Group has played an important role in aiding Russian forces in their bid to control Bakhmut, Prigozhin has frequently criticized the Russian defense ministry for not providing his soldiers with adequate ammunition and support. Girkin further noted that Prigozhin’s warning to Russia’s military leadership that the Wagner Group would leave Bakhmut if they were not given ammunition was a form of open blackmail.

The leader of the Wagner Group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, has issued a warning amid escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine, as the latter prepares to launch a counteroffensive in the coming months. The West, including the United States, has been providing Ukraine with advanced military equipment, tanks, and artillery, among other resources, to help them prepare for this offensive. According to Girkin, Prigozhin is aware that withdrawing his soldiers could have severe consequences for Russia, especially with Ukraine’s counteroffensive looming.

Girkin, who has been a vocal critic of Prigozhin and the Russian defense ministry’s operations in Ukraine, asserted last month that removing Prigozhin was “urgently necessary.” He also stated that the paramilitary mercenary, along with Russian soldiers, should be taken off the frontlines for replenishment and reorganization, so they can be deployed in a more advantageous strategic direction to break through the front. In the meantime, on Saturday, Girkin stated that Prigozhin had previously criticized both the Russian command and army by saying “We must forget the word Airborne Forces are doing something in Bakhmut.”

The situation remains volatile, and it is uncertain what action Putin and the Russian defense ministry will take to address Prigozhin’s concerns. However, Girkin’s warning of potential “military mutiny” from the Wagner Group highlights the growing tensions within the Russian military and the potential risks to Russia’s operations in Ukraine.