In a recently surfaced video, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the reputed leader of the Wagner Private Military Company, can be seen addressing the camera from a vehicle, affirming his well-being shortly before his tragic demise in a plane crash, as reported by Sky News.
The video, filmed in mid-August, captures Prigozhin wearing camouflage attire and a cap, with a watch adorning his right hand. Speaking from Wagner’s Grey Zone Telegram channel, he asserts, “For those speculating about my existence, my condition, it’s now the weekend in the latter part of August 2023, and I find myself in Africa. As for those engrossed in discussions about my removal, personal life, earnings, or other matters—essentially, I’m in good health.”
Tragically, this candid declaration took place just days before the reported passing of Prigozhin, who was subsequently laid to rest at the Porokhovskoye cemetery in St. Petersburg, Russia, in accordance with his business team’s announcement, as documented by SaharaReporters. The burial ceremony unfolded six days after the fatal plane crash that occurred in the Russian capital of Moscow.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin, whom Prigozhin had challenged in June, would not attend the funeral, underscoring the complex relationship between the two figures.
Captivating imagery circulating online indicates that Prigozhin’s final resting place is beside his father’s, marked by a wooden cross. The poignant scene is further accentuated by the presence of both Russian flags and banners representing the private military company, symbolizing the indelible mark left by Prigozhin’s leadership.
Tragedy struck when Prigozhin, accompanied by his closest confidants and the crew of his private jet, met his untimely demise in a fiery plane crash. Investigations into the incident are currently underway by the Russian Investigative Committee, which recently confirmed the identities of all victims through DNA tests.
Prigozhin’s legacy is one of complexity and controversy, having led Russia’s Wagner Group of fighters, including active participation on the frontlines in Ukraine. His ill-fated attempt to challenge the Kremlin in June marked a pivotal moment, culminating in his demise two months later in the plane crash. As the investigation unfolds, questions remain about the circumstances that led to the unfortunate event, leaving behind a trail of intrigue and uncertainty.