The recent tragic plane crash in Russia that allegedly resulted in the death of Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin has ignited a whirlwind of theories, conspiracies, and political intrigue.
This incident not only presents an intricate storyline but also a potential political twist that has caught the attention of international authorities.
Let’s delve into the various facets of this incident:
The Crash: Wagner Chief and Lieutenants Dead
Mysterious Crash
A flight experienced a mysterious delay before crashing shortly after taking off from Moscow.
The plane was carrying Prigozhin, six of his top lieutenants, including Dmitry Utkin Wagner, and three crew members.
Rescuers found all ten bodies, and Prigozhin’s private military company, Wagner, confirmed his death.
Suspicion of Putin’s Involvement
Western officials, including U.S. President Joe Biden, have expressed that nothing happens in Russia without Putin’s knowledge, feeding the speculation that the crash may have been deliberate.
Pro-Prigozhin channels offered various theories of intentional downing.
Data from Flightradar
Evidence from Flightradar showed the business jet, linked to Prigozhin, plummeted from the sky suddenly at 6.19 pm Moscow time.
Different accounts reported a loss of 8,000ft in 22 seconds and unusual speed behavior before the plunge.
Investigation and Reactions
Investigating the Crash Site
Police and investigators have been studying the crash site in the Tver region, north of Moscow. Reports mention badly charred bodies being taken for forensic exams.
Memorial at Wagner’s Headquarters
An improvised memorial was set up at Wagner’s headquarters in St Petersburg, with lights turned on in the shape of a large cross, and supporters brought flowers to the building.
Theories Surrounding Prigozhin’s Death
Observers consider Prigozhin’s death to be Putin’s retribution for challenging his authority, perhaps the gravest threat to his rule in 23 years.
Flight Details and Oddities
Flight Attendant’s Account
Kristina Raspopova, a flight attendant, told relatives of an unexplained holdup before the flight and mentioned that the aircraft was being “repaired.”
Revenge Vows and Security Measures
Wagner mercenary loyalists have vowed revenge on Vladimir Putin, blaming him for assassinating Prigozhin.
Russian security forces have subsequently tightened security in certain regions.
Political Commentary
Ukrainian presidential advisor Mykhailo Podolyak commented on the incident, interpreting it as a stern warning to Russian elites and military from Putin.
Speculation About Prigozhin’s Fate
Doubts About Death
Russian MP Mikhail Delyagin and sources close to the Kremlin have expressed doubts about Prigozhin’s death, hinting that he might still be alive.
Conclusion
The death of Yevgeny Prigozhin has opened a Pandora’s box of suspicions, theories, and potential political maneuvers.
The various facets of the incident, from the sudden crash to speculations about Putin’s involvement, have created a complex narrative that is likely to unravel further in the coming days.
The incident underscores the opaque and often convoluted nature of political machinations in Russia, leaving observers to wait and watch as the story unfolds.