An Insider’s Confirmation
Adding credence to the gravity of the situation, Igor Girkin, a former officer in the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB), confirmed that the coup attempt was underway. The Wagner Group also officially acknowledged its role in orchestrating the coup.
On-The-Ground Developments
According to recent reports, the Wagner Group faced no resistance from the FSB as they entered the Russian city of Rostov. This development raises speculation on whether sections of the FSB might be colluding with the coup plotters, or if they are seeking to avoid direct confrontation.
Prigozhin made an alarming claim that the Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, Valery Gerasimov, ordered airstrikes on Wagner’s columns mingling with civilian vehicles, but that the pilots did not comply.
The FSB and Special Rapid Response Unit (SOBR) have established roadblocks on the Moscow-Voronezh-Rostov-on-Don highway, and there are reports of a clash between Wagner forces and the Russian National Guard units near Kozachi Laheri.
Streets in Rostov have been flooded with armored vehicles, and special forces are being airlifted to the region, indicating the seriousness of the situation.
Wagner’s Stance
The Wagner Group has issued threats against Russian military personnel not actively supporting their cause, accusing them of collaborating with Ukraine and warning of severe repercussions.
Calls for Restraint
Several high-ranking officers in the Russian military have issued video statements urging Wagner to halt their advancement. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Defense has called upon Wagner to stand down repeatedly.
Internet Blackout
There are claims that only around 25% of the Russian population currently has internet access, possibly in an attempt to control the information flow about the unfolding events.
International Ramifications
The Russian Defense Ministry stated that Ukraine is exploiting the situation to mount attacks on Russian forces, portraying the complex geopolitical ramifications of the coup.
Uncertainty in Kremlin
Russian media sources report an atmosphere of panic within the Kremlin. There are also indications of a potential shift in loyalties among the elites, with Prigozhin emerging as a preferred figure over Putin.
Prigozhin’s Resolve
Prigozhin asserted that he and his forces are prepared to go to any length to see through their mission, threatening to “destroy anyone who stands in their way.”
Dmitry Peskov, the Press Secretary for the President of Russia, stated that President Putin is being kept abreast of the situation round the clock.
Analysis
The success of the coup largely hinges on the level of support it receives from within the Kremlin and the military. Reports suggest that Wagner was able to enter Rostov, a strategically important city, unopposed. However, many believe this may be a desperate last stand by Prigozhin.
As investigations into weapons smuggling and alleged internal alliances continue, the world watches apprehensively as this audacious coup attempt unfolds in one of the globe’s major powers.