(Dan Tri) – The European Union (EU) countries and the United States are closely monitoring the situation in Russia after the `rebellion` statement by private military corporation tycoon Wagner and assessing the impact on the war.
Wagner soldiers in Rostov-on-Don (Photo: Reuters).
US National Security Council spokesman Adam Hodge said on June 24 that Washington is closely monitoring and consulting with allies on the current situation in Russia.
On the same day, US Senator Marco Rubio commented on Twitter: `Our national security agencies are closely following developments in Russia. Regardless of how this plays out, it will certainly have an impact.`
EU countries said they were monitoring the situation, but emphasized their view that what is happening in Russia is an `internal matter`.
A German government spokesman also said that the country is closely watching after Wagner announced control of a series of important military facilities in two southern cities of Russia.
The French President’s Office issued a statement saying: `The President is monitoring the situation. We continue to focus on supporting Ukraine.`
Polish President Andrzej Duda also shared on Twitter: `Due to the situation in Russia, this morning we consulted with the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Defense as well as with allies.`
Faced with complicated developments in Russia, Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas requested to strengthen security on the border with Russia.
On the British side, in an updated report, the Ministry of Defense said: `Wagner controlled important security facilities in Rostov-on-Don, including the headquarters of Russia’s military operations.`
Previously, in videos posted last night, Wagner military group boss Yevgeny Prigozhin accused the Russian army of attacking and killing a large number of Wagner’s gunmen.
In a televised speech today, Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned Wagner’s actions as treason and will be severely punished.
Mr. Putin said that Russia is waging a challenging struggle for the future when it has to deal with the entire military and information apparatus of the West.
`This is a struggle that will determine the country’s destiny. This struggle requires the spirit of solidarity of all forces, consensus and responsibility,` President Putin emphasized.
Leader of the Chechen Republic (Russia) Ramzan Kadyrov said that if necessary, his forces are ready to help stop the mutiny of tycoon Wagner.
Russia has increased security in Rostov-on-Don and the Moscow region, especially restricting traffic on the route from Rostov-on-Don to the capital.
Rostov-on-Don authorities advise people not to leave their homes unless there is an urgent need.
Rostov-on-Don is located in Southern Russia, bordering Ukraine (Map: Sky).