(V7N), 24 June 2024- The once-powerful Wagner Group, infamous for its role in global conflicts under the command of Yevgeny Prigozhin, has undergone significant transformation following internal turmoil and the demise of its leader. Experts suggest that remnants of Wagner are now effectively under Kremlin control, albeit dispersed across various Russian states.

According to Sorcha McLeod, a member of the United Nations Working Group on Mercenaries and lecturer at the University of Copenhagen, while the original Wagner entity may have disbanded, its legacy persists in fragmented forms operating across Russian territories. This decentralization complicates oversight and control over these elements.

Wagner's pivotal role in Russian military operations across Africa and Syria, supporting Moscow's strategic interests, was unparalleled for years. The group, often composed of ex-convicts and mercenaries, played a crucial role in conflict zones, including Ukraine, where it purportedly numbered up to 50,000 at its peak.

The group's trajectory changed dramatically in 2023 when Prigozhin returned to Russia amid tensions and subsequently met his demise. His death left Wagner in disarray, prompting a restructuring of its operations in Ukraine, with some elements merging into Russian state and paramilitary units like the Roseguardia.

Reports from UK intelligence indicate that former Wagner infantry units have integrated into the Roseguardia, described as Putin's 'personal army' under Victor Zolot. This move, completed by October 2023, aimed to consolidate state control over Wagner remnants and enhance operational alignment with Kremlin objectives.

In a notable shift, Wagner's operations in Africa have continued under a new guise, overseen by a Russian 'Africa Corps' led by former GRU General Andrey Averianov. This entity has assumed Wagner's roles in guarding trade routes and securing strategic interests, reinforcing Russian influence across the continent.

Despite these changes, Wagner's presence persists in the Central African Republic (CAR) under Pavel Prigozhin, Yevgeny's son, who has assured continuity of services in alignment with Russian interests. This move underscores Moscow's ongoing strategic focus in Africa, leveraging local alliances for resource access and geopolitical influence.

The evolution of Wagner into the 'Africa Corps' signals Russia's sustained commitment to its African initiatives post-Prigozhin era. As Moscow expands its footprint in West Africa through deployments in Burkina Faso and Niger, the Africa Corps emerges as a pivotal element in Moscow's broader geopolitical strategy.

As the situation continues to evolve, observers and analysts will closely monitor the activities of the restructured Wagner remnants and the newly formed Africa Corps, highlighting Russia's adaptive approach to maintaining influence and securing strategic interests abroad.

 

 

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