Episode 29 of our weekly podcast examines the influence of the shadowy paramilitary organization Wagner Group and its leader Yevgeny Prigozhin.
Since the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Wagner has been active on the ground and involved in some of the conflict’s fiercest battles, notably around Bakhmut.
The panel discusses the group’s relationship with the Russian armed forces, its ties with the Kremlin and the increasingly tense relationship its leader Yevgeny Prigozhin has with senior Russian leaders.
Guests also examine latest developments from the frontline in Ukraine. With Kyiv’s counter-offensive seemingly imminent, the Nova Kakhovka dam along the Dnipro River has been destroyed.
The impact of this ecological disaster on Ukraine, as well as the recent fighting in Belgorod, and the drone attacks in Moscow, are all key signs that Kyiv may be about to go on the offensive.
Joining guest host James Nixey from Chatham House are Patricia Lewis, director of the International Security programme and Samantha de Bendern, associate fellow with the Russia and Eurasia programme. They are joined by Ed Arnold, research fellow for European security at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI).
About Independent Thinking
A weekly podcast hosted by Chatham House director Bronwen Maddox, in conversation with leading policymakers, journalists, and Chatham House experts providing insight on the latest international issues.
Source: Chatham House