At the same time, the reduction of the dependence of the Russian military on the “Wagnerians” under Bakhmut reduces Prigozhin’s influence in the Russian Federation.
The Kremlin turned to the owner of PMV “Wagner” Yevgeny Prigozhin to survive a difficult period after the culmination of the offensive of the Russian military in the Luhansk region in the summer of 2022.
According to ISW analysts, this misled Prigozhin, causing him to overestimate his importance in the Russian military and political sphere. At the same time, the reduction of the dependence of the Russian army on the forces of the PMK around Bakhmut reduces its influence.
According to experts, the Kremlin is probably gradually stripping Prigozhin of his privileges. The Ministry of Defense of Russia made new efforts to professionalize the army. If successful, they will lead to the marginalization of parallel military formations, such as the “Wagner” PMC.
It is noted that Prigozhin feels and compensates for the decrease in his influence. In particular, he began to attack the nationalist faction of veterans. Despite this, he has been accused of bribery, which may further undermine his reputation, regardless of their validity.
PVK “Wagner”: the latest news
A little earlier, the American government officially recognized the “Wagner group” as an international criminal organization and imposed sanctions against it and related persons and companies
According to the GUR, Prigozhin does not directly manage combat units. Its function is mainly media and political. In addition, he deals with financing and provision of the resource base.
On January 28, the company commander of the “Freedom” battalion, lieutenant of the National Guard of Ukraine Yevhen Oropai, said that the Armed Forces of Ukraine completely control Bakhmut, “Wagner” is no more.
