The Wagner Group: Putin's Divide and Conquer Strategy

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner Group private military company, was killed in a plane crash near Moscow, along with senior members of his organization. Russian President Vladimir Putin is suspected of orchestrating the crash, possibly as part of a plan to remove Prigozhin. A meeting at the Kremlin shortly after Prigozhin's failed rebellion suggests that Putin was preparing for a smooth takeover of Wagner. With Prigozhin out of the picture, Putin may have an easier time bringing Wagner under state control. Moscow is likely to use its security and intelligence services to solidify control over Wagner commanders and regional leaders. Other private military companies associated with Russia's Ministry of Defense may also compete with Wagner or eventually absorb it.