Yevgeny Prigozhin Named as Passenger on Crashed Russian Plane
Ten people have been killed in a private jet crash north of Moscow
Overt Operator
August 23, 2023
Photo taken from a video shared on the Telegram channel “WAGNER_svodki”
Update: 17:20:00 (5:20pm New York): Russian government media issued a statement confirming the death of Yevgeny Prigozhin in the private jet crash. See broadcast.
A plane believed to be carrying the infamous warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin, whose Wagner group made headlines with a failed coup attempt against President Vladimir Putin earlier this year, has crashed during a flight from Moscow to St. Petersburg, as confirmed by Russian officials.
The incident claimed the lives of all 10 individuals aboard the ill-fated aircraft, including the three crew members responsible for its operation. Russia's emergency ministry, as reported by the state news agency RIA Novosti, has officially declared the outcome.
Although Russian officials have indicated that a passenger by the name of Yevgeny Prigozhin was indeed on the flight, they have refrained from disclosing further details about his presence. This revelation raises numerous questions, leaving many to speculate whether this occurrence is a mere diversion, an orchestrated information maneuver, or an authentic event. Given the propensity of the Russian Federation and its governmental bodies to selectively release information, the situation's authenticity remains uncertain.
BREAKING:
A private jet owned by Prigozhin was just shot down by Russian air defenses over Tver.
Around 10 people onboard have been killed.
— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24)
Aug 23, 2023
Prigozhin's association with the Wagner group, a shadowy paramilitary organization believed to operate under his guidance, has stirred controversy both within Russia and on the international stage. The group's audacious attempt to overthrow President Putin sent shockwaves throughout the nation, prompting heightened scrutiny of its operations and connections.
Check back for updates as this story develops.