245. What is Happening in Russia?: Mutiny and the Wagner Group! (English Vocabulary Lesson)
Thinking in English
Putin's Chef: The Wagner Group
The Wagner group is a secretive and private mercenary group. Back in 2014, it was made up of mainly former Russian elite soldiers. The group operated in some of the most dangerous conflicts in the world. In many situations, Russia has used the Wagner group as a form of plausible deniability. This means they could do things for the Russian government in regions they operate - while Russia denies its involvement. For example, acting in conflicts in Sudan and Syria to support Russia's interests; helping to annex Crimea without the Russian military being involved. And in the current Ukrainian conflict, Wagner has been at the centre. Reports suggest that Wagner sent hundreds of soldiers into dangerous situations and lost many soldiers in the fight.
