Former Wagner Group Commanders Allegedly Admit to War Crimes in Ukraine
Two men who claim to be former commanders of the Wagner Group have reportedly confessed to committing atrocities, including the killing of children and civilians, during operations in Ukraine. These shocking admissions were made during interviews with a human rights organization, raising significant concerns about war crimes amid Russia’s ongoing invasion.
Why It Matters
The allegations highlight the dire humanitarian consequences of the conflict, placing a spotlight on the actions of Russian forces and private military contractors like Wagner. As international scrutiny grows, these admissions could have implications for accountability and justice for victims of the war, especially for the civilian population caught in the crossfire.
Key Developments
- Two former Wagner Group fighters, Azamat Uldarov and Alexey Savichev, shared their experiences in video interviews with Gulagu.net.
- Uldarov detailed the shooting of a young girl in what he described as a management decision, insisting that he followed orders to kill anyone in his path.
- Savichev recounted orders to execute men aged 15 and older and to clear houses regardless of the presence of civilians.
- Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner Group’s leader, threatened retribution against the former fighters and dismissed their claims as lies.
- The U.S. Treasury Department has designated Wagner as a significant transnational criminal organization, imposing new sanctions against its operations.
Full Report
Confessions from Former Fighters
Uldarov, who appeared to be under the influence during his interview, stated that he was commanded to eliminate anyone who posed a threat during his time in the eastern Ukrainian cities of Soledar and Bakhmut. He specifically reported the killing of a child, asserting, "I wasn’t allowed to let anyone out alive." His motivations for speaking out included a desire to expose the truth about the war.
Savichev echoed Uldarov’s sentiments, detailing the ruthless orders given to Wagner mercenaries. He described operations where commanders were instructed to "sweep" houses without concern for civilian lives, suggesting a systematic approach to violence against both military and non-military targets. He acknowledged that those who failed to comply with orders faced dire consequences, often facing death themselves.
Reactions from Prigozhin
In response to the admissions, Prigozhin stated on his Telegram channel that he had reviewed portions of the interviews. He offered a conditional promise to accept accountability if the allegations were confirmed, while simultaneously threatening those who spread what he termed “lies.” Prigozhin denied any involvement in targeting civilians, insisting that Wagner’s mission was to protect rather than harm the Ukrainian population.
Statements from Ukrainian Officials
Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian president’s office, emphasized the need for accountability, branding the confessions as evidence of heinous crimes committed against civilians. He called for justice, encouraging a tough and fair response for those responsible for the alleged atrocities.
Context & Previous Events
The Wagner Group is a private military organization linked to the Russian government and known for recruiting fighters from prisons. In earlier reports, former Wagner fighters described brutal tactics that included using conscripted convicts as cannon fodder in waves against enemy defenses.
Additionally, in January, the U.S. imposed further sanctions on the Wagner Group, reflecting the organization’s significant role in facilitating military operations that have drawn international condemnation.
