Putin Requires Wagner Mercenaries to Pledge Loyalty to Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a decree requiring all employees of Wagner and other Russian private military contractors to swear allegiance to the Russian state. The decree applies to those involved in military activities in Ukraine and serving in territorial defense units. This move comes after the presumed deaths of Wagner leaders in a plane crash and is seen as an attempt by Putin to reassert control over the group. Analysts suggest that the decree aims to prevent future crises and tighten control over Wagner. The oath includes a promise to strictly follow commanders' orders and is seen as a message to both military intelligence and the fighters themselves. The impact of the decree on Wagner fighters, who currently lack an obvious leader, remains uncertain.