Prigozhin Feared Dead In Wagner-Linked Jet Crash

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Yevgeny Prigozhin’s Reported Demise: Wagner Group Founder on Crashed Jet

Reports from Wagner-linked sources indicate that Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of the private military contractor Wagner Group, was aboard a business jet that tragically crashed in Russia on Wednesday. Russian aviation authorities have also confirmed Prigozhin’s presence on the ill-fated flight.

Fatal Crash Claims All Aboard

Tragic Outcome of the Jet Crash

The crash resulted in the loss of all 10 individuals on board, including three crew members. As preliminary investigations proceeded, RIA Novosti, the state news agency of Russia, reported that eight bodies were discovered at the crash site.

Confirmation of Prigozhin’s Involvement

Official Confirmation of Prigozhin’s Presence

Rosaviatsia, Russia’s aviation agency, confirmed the individuals on the flight, stating, “According to the airline, the following passengers were on board the Embraer – 135 (EBM-135BJ) aircraft:… Prigozhin, Yevgeny.” Alongside Prigozhin, Dmitry Utkin, a key associate of Prigozhin and a figure linked to Wagner’s operations, was also identified as being on the plane.

Wagner-Linked Source Confirms Prigozhin’s Death

Wagner-Affiliated Channel Affirms Prigozhin’s Passing

The Wagner-affiliated Telegram channel “Grey Zone” confirmed the passing of Yevgeny Prigozhin, lauding him as a hero and patriot. The post also suggested that his demise was orchestrated by unidentified entities termed “traitors to Russia.”

A Suspicious Incident

Doubts Surrounding the Crash

Juri Rescheto, DW’s Russia bureau chief, raised questions regarding the incident, remarking, “It may well be that this crash was not a tragic accident.” Rescheto suggested that Prigozhin’s growing influence and his public expressions of doubt about the sense of the war in Ukraine might have led to his demise, making him an inconvenient figure for the Kremlin.

Potential Ramifications

Implications of Prigozhin’s Demise

Should Prigozhin’s death be verified, it could significantly impact the future of the Wagner Group. Rescheto speculated that the group may cease to exist as a significant fighting force without Prigozhin’s leadership.

Political Reactions

International Response to Prigozhin’s Death

The White House acknowledged the news, with President Joe Biden acknowledging the situation and expressing his lack of surprise. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak noted that Putin’s elimination of Prigozhin could be a signal to Russia’s elites ahead of the 2024 elections.

Prigozhin’s Background and Influence

Profile of Yevgeny Prigozhin

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of the Wagner Group, played a significant role in the Russian invasion of Ukraine. His challenge to Russia’s military leadership and his decision to withdraw his troops from Ukraine had marked a pivotal moment in his contentious relationship with the Kremlin. Prior to his open defiance, Prigozhin was a close ally to President Putin, even serving as his personal caterer. He wielded his influence to establish various businesses, including the Wagner Group.

The reported circumstances surrounding Prigozhin’s demise cast a shadow of intrigue, sparking questions about the nature of the crash and its potential connection to his political standing.