Investigation into Yevgeny Prigozhin’s Possible Involvement in Fatal Plane Crash
Passenger List Reveals Yevgeny Prigozhin’s Presence
Russian officials have confirmed that Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of Wagner paramilitary group, was on board a private jet that crashed in the Tver region near Moscow, resulting in the death of all 10 individuals on board. According to Rosaviatsia, the Russian aviation authority, Prigozhin’s name was listed in the manifest of the Embraer business jet. While the cause of the crash remains unclear, Prigozhin’s history of feuding with the military and leading an armed uprising in June raises the possibility of revenge as a motive.
Speculations of Russian Revenge
Media channels associated with Wagner were quick to suggest that the plane had been shot down by a Russian air defense missile. The ongoing conflict between Prigozhin and the Russian military, coupled with his failed mutiny in June, provide a motive for revenge on the part of the Russian state. However, these claims remain unverified, and further investigation is needed to determine the cause of the crash.
The Crash and Prigozhin’s Connection to the Jet
The Embraer jet crashed in the Tver region while en route from Moscow to St. Petersburg. Videos posted online show the jet trailing smoke before crashing into the ground and erupting in flames. The plane, bearing the tail number RA-02795, has been subjected to US sanctions since 2019 due to its association with Prigozhin. Reports suggest that Prigozhin had been using the plane, including after his failed mutiny in June.
Ten Fatalities Confirmed
Russian news agencies, including Baza, which has close ties to Russian law enforcement, initially reported that all seven passengers and three crew members on board the jet had been killed. Official confirmation later verified the death toll as 10. The identities of the other passengers and crew members have not been disclosed, but it is likely that they were individuals associated with Prigozhin or his organization.”
Background on Yevgeny Prigozhin and Wagner
Prigozhin’s Rise to Power
Yevgeny Prigozhin, an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, amassed a fortune through state contracts before branching out into various ventures. Notably, he established troll factories and a paramilitary army known as Wagner, which became a significant instrument of Russian influence abroad. Prigozhin’s Wagner group secured profitable deals in countries like the Central African Republic and other parts of Africa.
Wagner’s Involvement in Ukraine
In Ukraine, Wagner played a crucial role in the fight for Bakhmut, with troops reportedly recruited from prisons and tasked with supporting Russian interests. However, tensions arose between Prigozhin and the top defense brass in Ukraine over matters of ammunition and strategy. Prigozhin accused the defense ministry of neglecting his irregular fighters and sacrificing them to protect regular Russian troops on the front lines.
Prigozhin’s Mutiny and his Move to Belarus
On 1 July, Prigozhin launched an armed mutiny, sending his paramilitaries to seize control of a military headquarters in Rostov-on-Don and initiating a “march of justice” towards Moscow. The mutiny led to the death of approximately 15 Russian servicemen. Eventually, Prigozhin agreed to leave Ukraine and relocate his mercenaries to Belarus. Since then, he has claimed to be in Africa, where his mercenaries have allegedly relocated.
Investigation and Implications
Establishing the Cause of the Crash
The investigation into the plane crash will undoubtedly delve into whether Prigozhin’s presence on the jet had a direct connection to the crash. While theories of revenge by the Russian state persist, it is important to consider all possible scenarios, including technical failures or general aviation accidents. Until concrete evidence emerges, it is premature to draw conclusive links between Prigozhin’s actions and his demise.
Repercussions on Russian-Ukrainian Relations
The involvement of Yevgeny Prigozhin, a prominent figure in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, in the fatal plane crash could have significant implications for the ongoing tensions between the two nations. If it is proven that the crash was a result of revenge from the Russian state, it would undoubtedly escalate the conflict and potentially destabilize the region further. Conversely, if the crash was unrelated to Prigozhin’s involvement in the conflict, it could potentially ease tensions, allowing for diplomatic efforts to resume.
Final Thoughts and Advice
In this uncertain period, it is crucial to exercise patience and wait for the investigation to uncover the truth behind the fatal crash. Jumping to conclusions or making hasty judgments can exacerbate the already complex geopolitical situation. International cooperation and transparency in the investigation are essential to ensure a fair and impartial assessment of the incident. As the investigation unfolds, it is imperative that all parties involved prioritize peace and dialogue to prevent further escalation in the already volatile region.
<< photo by Girl with red hat >>
The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.
