Yevgeny Prigozhin, a top ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin and head of the Kremlin-backed Wagner mercenary army, has unexpectedly called for an end to the war in Ukraine. In a lengthy online statement, he argued that Russia has already accomplished its objectives, including eliminating a significant portion of Ukraine's active male population.
Prigozhin claimed that Russia had seized a "sizable portion" of Ukrainian territory and suggested that the best strategic move for its armed forces, which have suffered heavy losses, would be to defend the current gains. The warlord, who is considered a potential political rival to Putin, also cautioned that as the brutal conflict drags on, the Russian people may look for a "scapegoat" for the military's failures.
This marks the first time a senior Putin associate involved in the conflict has publicly advised the Kremlin to halt the war. Prigozhin's unexpected call for an end to hostilities appears to recognize the Kremlin's forces' weaknesses and the Russian public's dwindling appetite for war.
Prigozhin, known as Putin's "chef" for his previous role overseeing Kremlin banquets, stated: "For the government and society as a whole, it is necessary today to draw a firm line under the special military operation." He added, "The ideal option is to announce the end of the special military operation, to inform everyone that Russia has achieved the results that it planned, and in a sense, we have actually achieved them."
He noted that Russia had already "made a point" by decimating a large part of Ukraine's active male population and forcing others to flee to Europe. Prigozhin also admitted that Ukraine could launch a counteroffensive and breach Russian lines, warning that this could lead to "global changes in Russian society."
Prigozhin is believed to have political aspirations and is rumored to be seeking control of an existing political party called Just Russia. His latest statement appears to be an attempt to showcase his political influence, and he has consistently been vocal about the Kremlin's tactics throughout the war.
This statement contrasts sharply with analysts' views that the Russian government is preparing for an extended conflict. A new law introduced yesterday, which prevents some Russian men from avoiding the draft, suggests that Moscow aims to maximize its supply of troops as the war continues, according to the UK's Ministry of Defence.