The United Kingdom’s defense ministry has suggested a potential shift in Russia’s financial support for the Wagner Group, a mercenary organization.
According to the ministry’s recent daily bulletin, it is plausible that Russia has withdrawn its funding, potentially due to actions taken against Wagner owner Yevgeny Prigozhin, who was involved in a failed mutiny against the Russian army leadership.
The bulletin speculates that if Russian funding has ceased, the Belarusian authorities might become alternative backers, a move that could strain Belarus’ resources. The defense ministry also noted Wagner’s efforts to downsize and restructure amid financial challenges, aiming to reduce staff salary expenses.