threat to Ukraine
Ex-General: Wagner could attack from Belarus
06/25/2023, 12:29 p.m
Wagner boss Prigozhin goes into exile in Belarus. If many mercenaries follow him there, it could be dangerous for Ukraine, says British ex-General Dannatt. Kiev must be prepared for a possible attack.
British ex-General Richard Dannatt has warned of an attack by fighters from Wagner’s private army on Ukraine from Belarus if many mercenaries follow their boss Yevgeny Prigozhin into exile. The fact that Prigozhin is now moving to Belarus after the end of the uprising against the Kremlin is cause for concern, the former chief of staff told Sky News.
If he gathers an “effective force” around him there, it would be a threat again. Russia has been waging a war of aggression against Ukraine for 16 months. The Wagner mercenaries have so far been one of the most important troops.
“Although it seems that this matter is closed, I think it is far from that and that the aftershocks will be felt for quite some time,” said the ex-general. Ukraine must keep a close eye on their flank and “make sure they have some maneuverable units so they can repel another attack from Belarus.”
Prigozhin suddenly ended his troops’ march on Moscow on Saturday evening. According to an agreement with the Kremlin, he should be allowed to travel to Belarus without punishment. The deal came about through the mediation of Belarusian ruler Alexander Lukashenko.