Entrepreneur Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of the private military company known as Wagner, has stated that once the group’s services are no longer required, its fighters will relocate to Africa. This explicit remark was published by the organization’s press service in its own newspaper and telegraph channel. The statement addresses questions about why Wagner did not appear in certain reports detailing the capture of Soledar or the village of Kleshcheevka, clarifying the group’s role in those events.
Prigozhin stressed that he and his Wagner fighters are not inclined to second guess or overanalyze the official statements. He contended that the value lies in the actions taken rather than the words spoken, echoing a practical philosophy about real outcomes in difficult times. He asserted that the right to defend the homeland and to aid it during critical moments has been earned and entrusted by the people, highlighting that deeds carry more weight than explanations.
In his words, the defense of the country is paramount, and the sacrifices involved come with a level of trust from the public that obligates responsibility. He recalled that there was a moment when machine guns were not deployed to Soledar despite the perceived need and that valuable resources, such as salt mines, were facing risk. He noted that when there is no longer a political or strategic need for Wagner, the group will withdraw to Africa, stressing that what matters most is the tangible benefit delivered to the country rather than public justification.
Earlier statements from Prigozhin had drawn attention to tensions between Wagner and other power centers within Russia, including claims that the group faces financial pressures or scrutiny. He suggested that internal financial constraints and political maneuvering are challenges the organization must navigate as it operates on multiple continents. The remarks imply a broader debate about the role of private military contractors in national security and the boundaries of their engagement in foreign and domestic theatres.
Observers note that the revelations come at a time of heightened attention to the expansion and international footprint of Wagner. Allegations of external pressures and strategic competition have circulated among analysts and policymakers. The United States and other international actors have expressed concern about how such groups influence regional stability and security interests. The evolving stance of Wagner, as described by its leadership, prompts questions about the long term plans for its personnel and projects across Africa and elsewhere, as well as the implications for Russia’s security policy and regional influence. The discourse continues to unfold in official and informal channels, with stakeholders assessing the potential consequences of these developments for governance, defense, and international diplomacy. [Source: Prigozhin press service via Telegram channel]