Putin denounces Wagner ‘mutiny,’ promises retribution for rebellion.

Russian President Vladimir Putin Vows Punitive Actions Against Challengers

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a stern warning to those who dare to question his authority and challenge the ongoing war in Ukraine. He accuses them of “treason” and “betrayal” and promises that they will face severe consequences.

Occupation of Rostov-on-Don by Mercenary Warlord

In a dramatic turn of events, mercenary warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin and his Wagner military group have occupied Rostov-on-Don, Russia. Prigozhin, a vocal critic of the war in Ukraine, has reportedly taken control of Russia’s military headquarters in the city. British intelligence has confirmed these developments.

According to the Associated Press, Putin declared, “All those who prepared the rebellion will suffer inevitable punishment. The armed forces and other government agencies have received the necessary orders.”

Video footage shows Prigozhin, accompanied by Wagner troops, confronting high-ranking Russian military officials at the Southern Military District headquarters in Rostov-on-Don. He expresses his dissatisfaction with their handling of the war in Ukraine, as reported by the New York Times.

Counterterrorist Regime Implemented in Moscow

In response to the unrest, a “counterterrorist regime” has been put in place in Moscow. Russian authorities have also called for the arrest of Prigozhin.

Putin emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “We are fighting against anarchy and capitulation. This internal mutiny is a mortal blow to us. It is a blow to our people as a whole. These people who are responsible will certainly be brought to justice on behalf of our people,” as reported by The Epoch Times.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sees the unrest as a sign of Russian weakness. He warns that the longer Russia keeps its troops and mercenaries on Ukrainian soil, the more problems it will face in the future. The Wagner Group previously captured the important city of Bakhmut after intense fighting.

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Opposition Viewed as a “Stab in the Back”

Putin refers to the opposition as a “stab in the back,” highlighting the hostile relationship between Western nations and Russia. He believes that the entire military, economic, and information machinery of the West is working against Russia.

Prigozhin, on the other hand, describes his return to Russia as a “march of justice” rather than a “military coup.” He accuses Russia’s military of killing 2,000 Wagner troops and claims that his forces in Ukraine were targeted with rockets and artillery. He even asserts that his group shot down a Russian military helicopter.

“We will destroy anyone who stands in our way,” Prigozhin declares, boasting about the 25,000 men under his command. “We are moving forward and will go until the end.”

Vyacheslav Volodin, the speaker of Russia’s lower house of parliament, urges the Wagner troops to obey Putin’s orders. He emphasizes that they must choose to stand with their people, uphold the law, and protect the security and future of the Motherland.

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