Keyphrase: Wagner boss offers troop positions, leaked documents, Russian-Ukrainian conflict
In a startling revelation, leaked documents obtained by The Washington Post indicate that Yevgeny Prigozhin, the chief of the Russian mercenary group known as Wagner, repeatedly offered to disclose the positions of Russian troops to Ukraine’s federal intelligence agency. The leaks, originally shared on Discord, reveal that Prigozhin made the offer in late January, requesting that Ukraine withdraw its troops from the eastern city of Bakhmut in return.
The documents, however, do not specify the exact Russian army positions that were on the table in Prigozhin’s proposal. Ukrainian officials reportedly decided against accepting the offer, citing a lack of trust in Prigozhin’s willingness to uphold his end of the bargain.
The correspondence between Prigozhin and the Ukrainian intelligence agency has been confirmed by two Ukrainian officials. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has declined to comment on the matter. The news of Prigozhin’s proposal comes amidst a series of public disputes between the Wagner boss and Russia’s defense ministry over Moscow’s strategy in Ukraine.
Recently, Prigozhin released a profanity-laced video where he criticized “the complete asshole” responsible for Russia’s war efforts, leading to speculation about whether he was referring to Russian President Vladimir Putin himself. Prior to that, Prigozhin announced the withdrawal of his mercenaries from Bakhmut, expressing frustration with Moscow’s failure to provide sufficient ammunition and resources for his forces. The video included graphic footage of deceased Russian fighters.
The escalating feud between Prigozhin and Russia’s defense ministry has raised concerns within the Kremlin. Some insiders anticipate that Moscow’s security services may intervene to resolve the situation. It is believed that the Russian administration suspects Prigozhin of communicating with Ukrainian intelligence.
As the dynamics of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict continue to evolve, the leaked documents shed light on the complex web of interests and power struggles involved. The disclosure of such information underscores the delicate balance between state-affiliated actors and private military groups, highlighting the challenges faced in navigating this multifaceted conflict.
It remains to be seen how this revelation will impact the ongoing tensions in the region and whether it will lead to any significant developments or changes in the conflict’s trajectory.