Russia's Prigozhin posts first video since mutiny, hints he's in Africa

(Reuters) – Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Russian mercenary chief who led a brief mutiny in late June, has posted his first video address on Monday. The video, which appears to have been shot in Africa, shows Prigozhin dressed in camouflage holding a rifle with other armed men and a pickup truck in the background. Although the location and date of the video could not be verified, Prigozhin’s comments and posts in affiliated Telegram channels suggest that it was filmed in Africa.

In the video, Prigozhin comments, “The temperature is +50 – everything as we like. The Wagner PMC is making Russia even greater on all continents, particularly in Africa, where justice and happiness are being brought to the African people. We are making life a nightmare for ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and other bandits.” He also mentions that Wagner is currently recruiting individuals and encourages them to join the group by providing a telephone number.

Since the mutiny, Prigozhin’s future and that of Wagner have remained uncertain. Following the conflict with the Russian defense establishment, the Kremlin announced that Prigozhin and some of his fighters, who have participated in intense battles during the Ukraine war, would be relocating to Belarus. Subsequently, some Wagner fighters have already moved to Belarus and have begun training the country’s army.

In late July, Prigozhin expressed Wagner’s readiness to expand its presence in Africa. However, the details of this expansion plan are yet to be disclosed. The recent video address from Prigozhin, along with his invitation to join the group, hints at the group’s intention to continue fulfilling their assigned tasks as mercenaries.

It is worth noting that Prigozhin has gained prominence as the head of the Wagner private military company (PMC), which operates with close ties to the Russian government. The group has been involved in various operations worldwide, often in conflict zones.

Given the nature of the video and Prigozhin’s words, it further highlights the expanding influence and activities of the Wagner group, particularly in Africa. The intent to combat extremist organizations like ISIS and Al-Qaeda aligns with Russia’s ongoing efforts in maintaining regional stability and countering terrorism.

This video release comes as a significant development following the mutiny and subsequent relocation of Wagner fighters to Belarus. It demonstrates Prigozhin’s assertiveness and his determination to continue Wagner’s mission, which focuses on advancing Russia’s interests globally.

However, the specifics of Prigozhin’s relationship with the Russian government, particularly after the mutiny, remain undisclosed. As the situation evolves, further updates regarding Wagner and its future actions are expected to shed light on these aspects.

Reported by Maxim Rodionov, this news piece emphasizes the ongoing influence of Yevgeny Prigozhin and the Wagner group, while their engagement in Africa raises questions about their role and objectives on the continent. The authenticity of the video and its implications require further investigation.

Edited by Hugh Lawson.