"Putin's TV Interview: Insights on Ukraine Deployment from Former Wagner Chief"

Russian President Vladimir Putin met with former Wagner commander Andrei Troshev to discuss the use of "volunteer units" in the Ukraine war, signaling Moscow's efforts to gain control over the mercenary group following the death of its leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin. Putin stated that Troshev would be involved in forming these units, highlighting his experience as a former Wagner fighter. The Kremlin has been working to bring the rebellious group under its control, dismantling their military base and forcing them to hand over weaponry. Some former Wagner fighters have reportedly returned to the battlefield in Ukraine, operating as part of the regular army. The fate of Wagner and its operations abroad remains unclear, with reports of fighters signing contracts with the Russian defense ministry or other private military groups.