What is the Russian Wagner group of mercenaries?

Is Russia using mercenaries in Ukraine? A recent report from the British military intelligence has revealed that Russia has used the private military contractor called the Wagner group to reinforce its frontline forces in the Ukraine war

According to reports, Wagner has made advances in the eastern Donbas region of Ukraine.

And a recent revelation from foreign policy Magazine says:

Wagner may get involved in Burkina Faso next as a military coup in January has left the country vulnerable.

And its fighters are already present in neighbouring Mali which means that it is very possible.

For some, Russia is simply using Wagner to secure access to ports and natural resources.

Other analysts say Russia is trying to capitalise on the rising anti-French sentiment in the Sahel.

In March. There were protests against French Military presence in a number of countries including in Mali, Niger, Chad and Burkina Faso.

France has been withdrawing its military presence in the region and now mainly operates out of Niger and Chad.

The Wagner Group has been called “Putin’s shadow army,” although the Kremlin has denied responsibility for any knowledge of their activities.

And The U.S. government has called Wagner a Proxy Force of Russia’s defense ministry.

Alongside their mercenary work, the group has also been accused of spreading disinformation.

But using mercenaries is not new.

Another controversial group is the American Private Milirtary contractor: Blackwater.

Which was led by the notorious Eric Prince.

Blackwater made billions of dollars during U.S.led wars in Iraq and Afghanistan before renaming itself.

The Intercept has also reported that Erik Prince has provided military services to Wagner in at least two African conflicts citing a report from “three people with knowledge of the efforts”.

Recently the European Union imposed sanctions on the Wagner group.

Experts say the war in Ukraine has forced the Kremlin to focus on Donbas, and less on Africa.

Small groups of Wagner fighters remain active in the Sahel, but more importantly; they remain influential.