The Hidden Funeral: Kremlin's Secretive Move to Deny Prigozhin 'Hero' Status

The Kremlin and Russian security service officials reportedly kept the funeral of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the rogue Wagner mercenary boss, a secret to deny him "hero" status after his recent mutiny. The decision was made to prevent mass gatherings, unrest, and protests. The location of the burial was not revealed until after the funeral, and security officers remained on scene guarding the area. Prigozhin's death, which came two months after his revolt, rattled the Kremlin and sparked an outpouring of grief from the public. Despite being awarded the title "Hero of Russia," Prigozhin's funeral lacked the grandeur expected, with only a small number of relatives and friends in attendance.