Heavily armed Russian mercenaries who advanced most of the way to Moscow began turning back, de-escalating a major challenge to President Vladimir Putin’s grip on power.
Yevgeny Prigozhin, a former Putin ally and founder of the Wagner army, said his men reached within 125 miles (200 km) of the capital.
In response, Moscow deployed soldiers in preparation for their arrival and told residents to avoid going out.
The Wagner fighters captured the city of Rostov hundreds of miles to the south before racing in convoy through the country, transporting tanks and armoured trucks and smashing through barricades set up to stop them, video showed.
Wagner fighters loaded tanks on trailers and began withdrawing from the Rostov military headquarters they had seized, a Reuters witness said.
The collapse of Russian state has gone from being dismissed as unimaginable to sth everyone can, & has, imagined. That alone will have serious consequences and cannot be undone.
Russian military helicopters opened fire on a convoy of rebel mercenaries already more than halfway toward Moscow.
President Vladimir Putin vowed to crush an armed mutiny he compared to Russia’s Civil War a century ago.
Fighters from Yevgeny Prigozhin’s private Wagner militia were in control of Rostov-on-Don, a city of more than a million people close to the border with Ukraine, and were rapidly advancing northwards through western Russia.
A Reuters journalist saw army helicopters open fire at an armed Wagner column that was advancing past the city of Voronezh with troop carriers and at least one tank on a flatbed truck. The city is more than halfway along the 1,100-km (680-mile) highway from Rostov to Moscow.
President Putin’s plane was spotted leaving Moscow
Prigozhin, whose private army fought the bloodiest battles in Ukraine even as he feuded for months with the top brass, said he had captured the headquarters of Russia’s Southern Military District in Rostov after leading his forces into Russia from Ukraine.
In Rostov, which serves as the main rear logistical hub for Russia’s entire invasion force, residents milled about, filming on mobile phones, as Wagner fighters in armoured vehicles and battle tanks took up positions.
President Vladimir Putin has signed a law imposing fines and up to 30 days of arrest for violating martial law.https://t.co/SFord1XC2f
One tank was wedged between stucco buildings with posters advertising the circus. Another had “Siberia” daubed in red paint across the front, a clear statement of intent to sweep across the breadth of Russia.
In Moscow, there was an increased security presence on the streets. Red Square was blocked off by metal barriers.
“Excessive ambitions and vested interests have led to treason,” Putin said in a televised address, comparing the insurrection at a time of war abroad to Russia’s revolution and civil war unleashed during World War One.
“All those who deliberately stepped on the path of betrayal, who prepared an armed insurrection, who took the path of blackmail and terrorist methods, will suffer inevitable punishment, will answer both to the law and to our people.”
A defiant Prigozhin swiftly replied that he and his men had no intention of turning themselves in.
Unraveling the crucial role in modern tech infrastructure
In the dynamic landscape of digital advancements, data centres stand as the unsung heroes, anchoring the core of modern technology infrastructure. Exploring this integral aspect, we delve into the significance of data centres in today’s interconnected world.
As the pace of digitalisation quickens, data centres take the forefront, becoming indispensable for the seamless functioning of our increasingly interconnected global ecosystem. The growing complexities, sizes, and scales of these centres, raising pertinent questions about their impact on sustainability. The expanding footprint of data centres contributes positively or negatively to the quest for a more environmentally conscious world.
Against the backdrop of omnipresent digital infrastructure, the focus shifts to the resilience of data centres. Key factors ensuring the robustness of these centres are explored, underscoring their critical role in maintaining uninterrupted digital services. However, the rising pressure on power grids introduces concerns about potential blackouts and their unforeseen consequences for Australian businesses.
Joe Craparotta, Vice President for the IT business at Schneider Electric, sheds light on the pivotal role data centres play in our interconnected world.
Taylor Swift has emerged victorious in a prestigious competition for Time Magazine’s Person of the Year, surpassing stiff contenders such as Barbie, King Charles III, and Sam Altman.
In a surprising turn of events, the globally renowned pop sensation, known for her chart-topping hits and captivating stage presence, has captured the hearts and minds of millions worldwide, cementing her status as a cultural icon.
Swift’s impact extends far beyond the realm of music.
Her relentless advocacy for social causes, from gender equality to LGBTQ+ rights, has resonated deeply with a diverse audience, transcending boundaries and generations. Time Magazine acknowledges her remarkable influence on society, celebrating her not only as an artist but as a force for positive change.
The news of Swift’s triumph has ignited discussions across the globe, sparking debates on the significance of pop culture in shaping the world’s social and political landscape.
Her journey from country sensation to global superstar and activist exemplifies the power of artistry and advocacy to make a profound impact.
Mining magnate and philanthropist Andrew Forrest made an impassioned call for accountability during a sideline interview at the UN COP28 climate conference.
In an extraordinary outburst, Forrest demanded that fossil fuel industry leaders be held responsible for their contributions to climate change.
Speaking to reporters, Forrest stated, “It’s time for the heads of fossil fuel executives to be on spikes – not literally, of course, but figuratively. We cannot continue to ignore the devastating impact these industries have on our planet. The time for action is now.”
Forrest’s comments come as world leaders gather to address the climate crisis and set ambitious targets for reducing carbon emissions. He emphasized the urgent need for a transition to cleaner energy sources and a shift away from fossil fuels.
The mining billionaire’s outspoken stance has sparked a debate among conference attendees, with some applauding his fervor for climate action and others cautioning against such extreme rhetoric.