Kremlin says ‘deliberate wrongdoing’ is a possible cause of the plane crash that killed Wagner chief

The plane crash that resulted in the tragic demise of Russian mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin last week has raised questions about the potential factors behind the incident. The Kremlin’s spokesperson stated that “deliberate wrongdoing” is among the plausible explanations for the crash. This revelation was made during a press briefing by Dmitry Peskov, the presidential press secretary, who emphasized that various hypotheses are under consideration by Russian investigators, including the unsettling possibility of intentional misconduct.

The ill-fated flight, carrying Prigozhin, the prominent figure behind the private military organization known as Wagner, along with his key associates, met its tragic end halfway between Moscow and St. Petersburg, resulting in the loss of all seven passengers and three crew members.

Despite this unfortunate event, the Interstate Aviation Committee, headquartered in Moscow and responsible for overseeing civil aviation in former Soviet republics, stated that it is not currently involved in investigating the crash. Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that the agency does maintain a division dedicated to accident investigation.

Peskov expressed that there won’t be an international inquiry into the incident, urging patience from the media while the Russian Investigative Committee completes its thorough review. The committee, in a standard procedure for cases lacking immediate indications of foul play, announced the initiation of a criminal investigation into potential violations of flight safety shortly after the crash occurred.

Interestingly, this tragic event unfolded precisely two months after Prigozhin led a brief armed rebellion against Russia’s military leadership. This act posed a considerable challenge to President Vladimir Putin’s authority, marking a notable development in Putin’s 23-year-long tenure. However, the Kremlin has categorically denied any involvement in the plane crash.

Prigozhin, aged 62, was laid to rest in his hometown of St. Petersburg in a discreet and private ceremony that only became known to the public on Tuesday evening when his representatives disclosed the burial location.

Amid the aftermath of this incident, analysts and officials from Western nations anticipate that the Wagner private military force will continue its operations, particularly in Africa’s Sahel region. In this area, Russian mercenaries have played a role in providing security against extremist groups such as al-Qaida and the Islamic State.

Despite the loss of Prigozhin, European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell expressed the belief that Wagner will find a suitable replacement. Borrell, while chairing discussions among EU defense ministers, noted that Wagner’s activities will persist, serving the interests of President Putin, particularly in Africa. Nonetheless, concerns have been raised about the organization’s impact on peace and stability in the Sahel, as its actions don’t necessarily align with the well-being of Saharan Africans.

Africa carries significant importance for Russia both economically and politically. Wagner has been instrumental in various endeavors across the continent. For instance, they contributed to securing a national referendum in the Central African Republic, reinforcing presidential authority. Additionally, they partnered with Mali’s army in countering armed rebel groups and engaged with the military junta in Niger following a coup.

This expansion of ties and influence in Africa is a strategic priority for the Kremlin, especially in light of its ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Wagner fighters played a crucial role in Russia’s efforts to secure the city of Bakhmut after a prolonged and intense battle. Recognizing the significance of Africa’s 54 nations as the largest voting bloc at the United Nations, Moscow has actively sought their support amid its involvement in Ukraine.

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More about Plane Crash Investigation

• Kremlin Spokesperson’s Statement on Plane Crash
• Russian Mercenary Leader Yevgeny Prigozhin
• Wagner Private Military Force
• Russian Investigative Committee
• Challenges to Putin’s Authority
• Sahel Region Security
• Africa’s Importance to Russia