The German publication Der Spiegel reports that the mutiny by the private military company Wagner ended because it found insufficient backing inside the Russian Federation. Spiegel. The article notes that the German government believes Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin did not command the level of support he anticipated within the country, which led to his decision on June 24 to halt the mercenaries’ movement toward Moscow. Spiegel.
Former Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki described Wagner and Prigozhin as facing intensified scrutiny as Poland strengthens its border with Belarus amid speculation he might relocate to that country. Spiegel. On the evening of June 23, Wagner chief Prigozhin announced that the Russian Defense Ministry forces had attacked the rear camps of his group, and that his troops were pushing toward Russia with a march framed as a demand for justice. The Defense Ministry denied the accusations, and the Prosecutor General’s Office later filed a lawsuit against Prigozhin for organizing an armed riot. Spiegel.
Early on June 24, Wagner forces reportedly evacuated Rostov-on-Don when the administration buildings were closed, and President Vladimir Putin prepared to travel toward Moscow. He condemned Prigozhin’s actions as a betrayal and warned the militia leaders of the consequences. The move gained support from the State Duma, the Federation Council, and the leaders of several regions, while the Chechen Akhmad forces were deployed to Rostov to help stabilize the area. Spiegel.
By evening, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko’s press service announced negotiations between Lukashenko and Prigozhin, resulting in what was described as an acceptable solution that guaranteed safety for Wagner fighters. Prigozhin, who had accused the leadership of widespread rioting, announced a reversal of his march and ordered his columns back to their field camps. Spiegel.