Possible cause of Prigozhin plane crash

Home > Industry Analysis > Content

【Summary】The Kremlin suggests that "deliberate wrongdoing" may have caused the plane crash that killed Russian mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin. Russian investigators are considering various possibilities, including foul play. The crash occurred after Prigozhin's failed rebellion against Russia's military leadership. The private military force Wagner, led by Prigozhin, is expected to continue operating in Africa, where they have provided security against extremist organizations.

FutureCar Staff Aug 30, 2023 5:09 PM PT

The Kremlin's spokesperson said that "deliberate wrongdoing" is one of the possible causes of the plane crash that killed Russian mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin. Dmitry Peskov, the presidential press secretary, stated that Russian investigators are considering different versions of what happened, including the possibility of deliberate wrongdoing.

The crash occurred when a business jet carrying Prigozhin and his top lieutenants crashed between Moscow and St. Petersburg, resulting in the deaths of all seven passengers and three crew members. The Interstate Aviation Committee, which oversees civil aviation in former Soviet republics, stated that it is not currently investigating the crash.

Peskov mentioned that there cannot be an international investigation into the crash and urged reporters to wait for the Russian Investigative Committee to complete its review. The committee had opened a criminal case to investigate possible flight safety violations, which is a standard procedure in Russia when foul play is not immediately suspected.

The plane crash occurred two months after Prigozhin mounted a short-lived armed rebellion against Russia's military leadership, posing a significant challenge to President Vladimir Putin's authority. The Kremlin has denied any involvement in the crash.

Prigozhin was buried in a private ceremony in St. Petersburg, and it was revealed on Tuesday evening the location of his grave. Western officials and analysts expect the private military force Wagner, led by Prigozhin, to continue operating, particularly in the Sahel region of Africa where they provide security against extremist organizations.

European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell stated that he is confident Wagner will find a replacement for Prigozhin and continue to operate in Africa. Russia has been actively expanding its ties and influence in Africa, seeking new allies during its war in Ukraine. Moscow has worked to rally support from Africa's 54 nations for its invasion.