Published on 06/25/2023 10:12
Video length: 2 mins
FRANCEINFO Article written by
The paramilitary group, which recruits more than 80% of its members from prisons, aims to establish pro-Kremlin zones around the world.
That’s a few thousand men capable of changing the course of a conflict. Founded on May 1, 2014, the Wagner paramilitary group consists of violent mercenaries. More than 80% of the members are convicts recruited directly from prisons. At the head of the militia is Evguéni Prigojine, a Russian oligarch who is close to Vladimir Putin. But for months the Kremlin chief denied that he was behind these mercenaries.
A crucial role in Africa
Wagner’s official mission is to ensure the defense of Russia’s external interests. But the reality is very different. Their ultimate goal is to set up pro-Kremlin zones around the world. Mercenaries played a crucial role in several warring countries such as Syria or Libya. Since 2018, they have also been training and recruiting Central African soldiers, a way for Russia to expand its influence in Africa. Wagner also took part in the capture of strategically important cities in Ukraine, especially Bachmout.
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