Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Andrei Troshev, one of the top former commanders of the Wagner mercenary group, to discuss the strategic utilization of “volunteer units” in the ongoing Ukraine war. This meeting highlights the Kremlin’s efforts to assert control over the group following a mutiny in June by its leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, who died in a plane crash in August.
The meeting, held at the Kremlin, was attended by Deputy Defence Minister Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, indicating that Troshev and Yevkurov will oversee the remnants of the Wagner group. Putin praised Troshev’s experience and knowledge in leading such units and expressed his interest in addressing social support for individuals involved in the conflict.
Troshev, a decorated veteran of Russia’s engagements in Afghanistan and Chechnya, as well as a former commander in the interior ministry rapid reaction force, has close ties to Putin. He hails from St. Petersburg, the president’s hometown, and received Russia’s highest medal, Hero of Russia, for his role in the liberation of Palmyra from ISIS in Syria.
The fate of Wagner has remained uncertain since Prigozhin’s failed mutiny and subsequent death. Some fighters have joined the official Russian army, while others have transitioned to different private military companies (PMCs). According to British military intelligence, there is evidence suggesting that redeploying personnel, including former Wagner members, are participating in various units involved in the conflict in Ukraine.
The meeting between Putin and Troshev provides further insight into the ongoing developments within the Wagner group and the Kremlin’s intentions in utilizing these volunteer units in the Ukraine war.
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