Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a stern warning to the Wagner Group mercenaries on Saturday, emphasizing that engaging in armed mutiny against Russia would constitute treason and result in severe repercussions. In an urgent televised address, Putin assured the nation that he would take resolute measures to restore stability in Rostov-on-Don, a city in southern Russia where Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin claimed his forces had gained control of all military facilities.
Expressing his deep concern over the situation, Putin referred to the Wagner Group’s actions as a betrayal to Russia and its people. He affirmed that decisive actions would be taken to safeguard the nation against this threat, using strong and unyielding methods. Those individuals who knowingly embarked on the path of treachery, orchestrating an armed uprising and resorting to tactics of blackmail and terrorism, would face inevitable punishment. They would be held accountable not only under the law but also in the eyes of the Russian people. Putin condemned the Wagner Group’s actions as a betrayal akin to a treacherous stab in the back.
Earlier on the same day, Russia announced the implementation of an anti-terrorist operation protocol in Moscow, following Prigozhin’s vow to overthrow the country’s military leadership.