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Coup Unfolds in Russia: Uncertainty Reigns as Putin Leaves Moscow Amidst Advancing Wagner Forces

Moscow, the epicenter of power in Russia, is gripped by tension as armed Wagner forces move towards the capital amidst reports of President Putin's unexplained departure.

24 June 2023 · 13:35 UTC

The dramatic and volatile developments in the ongoing coup in Russia continue to unfold at an unprecedented pace, as President Vladimir Putin is reportedly leaving Moscow for Saint Petersburg. The Wagner Group's forces are said to be advancing towards Moscow, with only limited resistance from the Russian Air Force. Amidst this turmoil, there are growing concerns about the whereabouts of Russian nuclear warheads that were reportedly moved to Belarus a few weeks ago.

Discrepancy in Kremlin Reports

In an unusual turn of events, TASS, the government-controlled media outlet, reported that President Putin is heading to Saint Petersburg. However, Putin’s Press Secretary swiftly refuted these claims. This evident disconnect between TASS and the Kremlin is rare and raises questions about the control and stability within the Russian government.

Unrelenting Wagner Convoy

Wagner forces, which have been a central figure in the coup, are reported to continue their relentless march towards Moscow. The Russian Air Force has conducted limited strikes on the advancing forces. Observers note that the limited nature of these strikes points to possible defections within the Russian military. The absence of decisive action to thwart the advance raises concerns about the cohesiveness of the Russian Armed Forces and their loyalty to President Putin.

Machine Guns Around Moscow

As Wagner forces approach the capital, machine gun positions have been spotted being set up around Moscow. This development indicates that the capital is bracing for a potential armed confrontation. It is unclear who currently controls these positions, and the city is gripped by tension.

Concerns over Nuclear Warheads

There are growing international concerns regarding the security and location of Russian nuclear warheads, which were reportedly moved to Belarus weeks ago. The current instability and the uncertainty surrounding the chain of command raise alarming questions about the safety and control of these devastating weapons.

Caution in Unverified Information

As the situation in Russia remains fluid and extremely unpredictable, information is pouring in from various sources. However, it is imperative to approach the information with caution as the veracity of many reports remains unverified.

What is undeniable is that Russia is currently in the throes of a military coup, and the situation is evolving rapidly. The international community is on high alert, as the events in Russia have the potential for far-reaching regional and global consequences.