A Plane Crash, 10 Dead People and a Question: Was This Putin’s Revenge?
Aug 25, 2023
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The mysterious crash of a private jet outside Moscow, believed to have killed rebellion leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, raises suspicions of political assassination in Putin's Russia. Moscow bureau chief Anton Troianovski explains the implications. The enigmatic actions of Prigoshin and Putin's possible involvement in the crash are analyzed, along with the impact on Russia's political system.
Yevgeni Prigoshin, despite leading the rebellion, managed to save himself from punishment by striking a deal with the Kremlin to allow his fighters refuge in Belarus, highlighting the complex power dynamics within Putin's Russia.
The mysterious crash of the plane carrying Yevgeni Prigoshin and his ally, along with evidence of foul play and an explosion, suggests a potential political assassination orchestrated by Putin to instill fear and showcase his dominance over the Russian elite.
Deep dives
Yevgeni Prigoshin's Deal with the Kremlin
Yevgeni Prigoshin, who led an armed rebellion against Moscow, struck a deal with the Kremlin that allowed his Wagner fighters to find refuge in Belarus. Despite causing a threat to Putin's rule, Prigoshin somehow managed to save himself from punishment for the moment.
Prigoshin's Continuing Presence in Africa
Yevgeni Prigoshin, despite leading the rebellion, continued to establish his presence in Africa. He had extensive business interests in gold and diamond mining, while also being involved in propping up authoritarian leaders loyal to Moscow. Prigoshin's involvement in Africa was reinforced by his meetings with African officials during a summit hosted by Putin.
The Mysterious Plane Crash and Potential Political Assassination
The plane carrying Yevgeni Prigoshin and his ally Dimitri Utkin crashed, leading to speculations of a potential political assassination. Flight tracking data showed that the plane experienced sudden and erratic movements before plummeting. Western officials believe that foul play and an explosion were involved, pointing to a possible intentional act. Putin's initial silence and subsequent statement indicated that Prigoshin's death may have been orchestrated, instilling fear in the Russian elite and showcasing Putin's dominance and strength.
The mysterious crash of a private jet outside Moscow is believed to have killed Yevgeny Prigozhin, the boss of the Wagner militia who led an armed rebellion against Moscow in June.
Anton Troianovski, the Moscow bureau chief for The Times, explains what we’ve learned about the crash, and what a potential political assassination says about President Vladimir Putin’s Russia.
Guest: Anton Troianovski, the Moscow bureau chief for The New York Times.
A blast is likely to have downed the jet and killed Mr. Prigozhin, U.S. officials say.
For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.
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