The Russian Defense Ministry has issued a public message directed at Wagner Group fighters, as reported by the ministry’s press service via its telegraph channel. The communication emphasizes that a number of Wagner personnel were drawn into what the ministry characterizes as a criminal venture led by Yevgeny Prigozhin and an armed insurrection. The statement aims to clarify the situation and encourage disciplined actions among service members during this period of heightened tension.
In the appeal, the ministry underscores that many among the Wagner units have already recognized the misstep of joining Prigozhin’s campaign and have sought safe paths back to their assigned posts. The message notes that arrangements have been made to assist all those who requested help, including both soldiers and their commanders, to ensure a secure return to their permanent deployment locations.
Security and safety guidance is a central element of the communication, with a clear urging for soldiers to rely on prudence. The ministry calls on personnel to contact representatives of the Defense Ministry or appropriate law enforcement bodies promptly to safeguard themselves and their comrades as the situation unfolds.
On June 23, the Defense Ministry publicly addressed the incident, stating that assertions and video footage circulating on social networks about an attack by the Russian Ministry of Defense on Wagner rear camps do not reflect reality and should be treated as informational provocations. This clarification is part of a broader effort to counter misinformation during a turbulent period.
Official remarks from Vladimir Putin’s administration, as conveyed by the presidential press secretary, Dmitry Peskov, indicate that the situation surrounding Prigozhin has been a subject of ongoing scrutiny at the highest levels of leadership. This acknowledgment signals a seriousness with which the authorities regard the events and their potential implications for national security and stability.
In response to Prigozhin’s statements, the National Counter-Terrorism Committee has indicated that it is pursuing measures related to incitement to military rebellion. The development underscores the seriousness with which both federal agencies and military leadership are treating any efforts to destabilize the armed forces or distort command and control during this period of tension.
Subsequent communications from Wagner-associated channels and official briefings have been followed by statements from high-ranking military officials, including General Sergei Surovikin, who issued a message addressing the evolving situation. A separate video message issued later by Lieutenant General Vladimir Alekseev, who serves as Deputy Chief of the General Staff, further contributed to the official narrative around the events. These communications collectively reflect an ongoing attempt by the defense establishment to present a unified, factual account while guiding service members through a complex and rapidly changing security scenario.