The Rest Is Classified 102. Putin's Secret Army: Criminals And Cannibals - Russia's War In Ukraine (Ep 5)
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Nov 24, 2025 Explore the chaotic early stages of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the pivotal role of Yevgeny Prigozhin and the Wagner Group. Discover how Prigozhin recruited convicts, including cannibals and sexual offenders, to bolster Russian forces. Delve into the moral dilemmas arising from these tactics and the chilling effects of their sacrificial assault waves. The hosts analyze viral videos and Prigozhin's controversial journey from obscurity to notoriety, revealing the intricate power dynamics within the Kremlin and the growing threat to Putin's authority.
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From Outsider To Essential Force
- Wagner was initially excluded from Russia's 72-hour invasion plan but became essential after the plan collapsed.
- Prigozhin filled the manpower gap and transformed Wagner into a large frontline force supporting the Kremlin's needs.
Scale Enables Brutal Tactics
- Wagner swelled from thousands to tens of thousands by pulling recruits from prisons and overseas operations.
- That mass recruitment created 'meat waves' tactics using expendable units to exhaust Ukrainian defenders.
Recruiting From Prison Yards
- Prigozhin personally visited penal colonies and offered prisoners pardons after six months in exchange for frontline service.
- He used a blunt recruitment speech warning of execution for deserters and banning sex with 'flora, fauna, men, whatever.'