UKRAINE: THE SITUATION 413 - APRIL 10, 2023

The financier of the Wagner Group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, reportedly seeks control of a Russian political party to advance his political ambitions.

The Russian opposition newspaper Meduza reported that the increasing cooperation between the financier of the Wagner Group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, and members of the party "A Just Russia - For the Truth" likely indicates that Prigozhin is seeking control of the party. Meduza noted that four party members left the party to form a new movement, with some citing the closeness between party leader Sergey Mironov and Prigozhin as the reason for their departure. ISW has repeatedly reported on the growing relationship between Mironov and Prigozhin and assessed that Mironov's support for the recognition of Wagner in Russia could trigger further divisions within the Kremlin. Two Kremlin sources and an insider from the St. Petersburg government claimed that Prigozhin is seeking a leadership position within the St. Petersburg branch of A Just Russia - For the Truth to compete with St. Petersburg Governor Alexander Beglov for influence in the city. According to Meduza's sources, Prigozhin previously had an interest in investing in the political party "Motherland" and may be aiming for a position at the federal level. In turn, Mironov is likely trying to revive his political influence and use Prigozhin as a patron for his political ambitions. Meduza's interlocutors pointed out that the Russian presidential administration is unlikely to allow Prigozhin to take control of the party "A Just Russia - For the Truth," as Prigozhin is in conflict with officials in the administration and with Beglov.

The full Russian Offensive Update 413 is available directly from UNDERSTANDING WAR.

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