Unraveling Russia's Recent Rebellion and Its Implications

A week after an armed rebellion led by mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin rattled Russia, key details about the uprising remain unknown. Speculation persists about whether Prigozhin had inside help from the military and political elite. The fate of Prigozhin and his Wagner private military forces, as well as the deal they received from the Kremlin, remains murky. It is unclear whether Putin can address the weaknesses exposed by the events and maintain control. The mutiny has revealed a crisis within the Russian armed forces and could set the stage for future challenges to Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. The future of military contractors in Russia is also being debated. Despite attempts to project strength, Putin's weakness and vulnerability have become apparent.