The Wagner Group, a private military force led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, launched a dramatic advance into Russia, escalating tensions with the Kremlin and raising concerns about the stability of the nation. Prigozhin characterized the move as a "march for justice" against Russia's military leadership, specifically targeting Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. The mercenary group swiftly secured control of military installations in Rostov-on-Don, a strategically vital city housing the command center for Russia's operations in Ukraine.

Wagner forces continued their northward push, progressing through Vorenezh Oblast, a region approximately 300 miles north of Rostov-on-Don. Intelligence reports indicated that the group's objective was likely Moscow. The U.K. Ministry of Defense noted a surprising lack of resistance from Russian security forces, suggesting potential acquiescence to Wagner's movements.

Wagner fighters were seen positioned on a tank near the Southern Military District headquarters in Rostov-on-Don. Further reports indicated that Wagner had also taken control of military facilities in Voronezh, although this could not be independently verified. A convoy of armed Wagner vehicles was observed moving north on the M4 motorway, a key route connecting Voronezh and Moscow, raising alarms in the Lipetsk region. Regional Governor Igor Artamonov confirmed the movement of Wagner equipment and urged residents to remain home.

In a televised address, President Vladimir Putin condemned the rebellion as a grave threat to Russia's sovereignty and promised decisive action. He described the mutiny as a betrayal of the Russian people and vowed severe consequences for those involved. Prigozhin, once a close ally of Putin, refuted accusations of treason, framing his actions as a fight against corruption and ineptitude within the military establishment.

Prigozhin accused Defense Minister Shoigu of orchestrating a missile strike on Wagner encampments in Ukraine, a claim denied by the Russian Defense Ministry. He insisted that his actions were not a coup but a necessary measure to address systemic issues within the military hierarchy. The FSB, Russia's security service, initiated a criminal investigation against Prigozhin for armed mutiny, characterizing his pronouncements as incitements to civil conflict. Despite the escalating crisis, reports indicated that Putin remained in Moscow, actively monitoring the situation.