Prigozhin says his forces "are turning our columns around," amid claims of deal brokered by Lukashenko

He’s a Putin puppet

A common misconception.

Lukashenko has been around longer the Yeltsin. Putin, Medvedev, and Putin 2: Electric Boogaloo. I would bet money that he'll be around after Putin's demise as well - whenever that will be.

As much of an idiot lackey as he seems - he's always been to squeeze what he wants out of Russia while squeezing from the West as well. Visa relationships, for example - are a good metric for international diplomacy. Americans can travel visa-free through Minsk Airport for up to 30 days. Think about that. And also - he's managed to survive his own coup/revolution attempts. And yes, with Russia's support - but he's still done it.

The war put him in a precarious balancing act where has simultaneously play nice with Moscow without getting Belarusian troops actually involved in battle. It keeps him in power.

I'm not saying Luka is smart or cunning. But he's maintained power for 30+ years. He's experienced in it.

why would Prigozhin cut a deal with him?

Nobody knows.

But I'm speculating Belarus offered him something very special. Maybe Moscow will oust Shoigu, and Belarusian 'diplomacy' will be seen as legitimate.

A distracted Moscow would be a premium opportunity for Belarusian activists and freedom fighters to organize another revolution. Last night, Lukashenko flew his family to Turkey. So... we can speculate as to how confident Luka was feeling.

Was the whole thing a psy-op to give Putin an out?

The "out" would've been for Putin to recall troops to Moscow to 'deal with the Wagner problem'. It would've given him an out and he would've seemed competent to do so.

Afterwards, he can say "its clear need to fix problems in the Russian military before we can help our lost brothers in Ukraine" and call an indefinite ceasefire. Then funnel money into military development indefinitely, like a fascist does.

But that's not what's happening... Wagner might just go back to fighting in Ukraine later today.

The news is happening at lightning speed. Nobody knows what's going on. Absolutely wild times.

I just asked Chat GPT to write this lol it turned out super wordy, but made me laugh to imagine that.

Subject: Resignation and Relocation: Charting a New Course

Dear President Putin,

I hope this email finds you in good health and high spirits. With a heavy heart, I write to tender my resignation as the head of Wagner, effective immediately. Please allow me to explain the reasoning behind this decision and outline my future plans.

Throughout my tenure at Wagner, it has been an immense honor to lead our dedicated mercenaries in service to our beloved country. Together, we have undertaken countless missions, safeguarding our nation's interests. However, recent developments have given rise to an increasing misalignment with the Russian generals, most notably Defense Minister Shoigu. This misalignment has significantly impeded my ability to contribute effectively, causing a sense of professional disillusionment.

In light of these circumstances, I have made the decision to relocate to Belarus, a nation that has captured my attention with its unique prospects and conducive environment. This move represents an opportunity for personal rejuvenation and the exploration of new horizons.

Although I am stepping down as the head of Wagner, I want to assure you of my unwavering dedication to our shared cause. Consequently, I have chosen to leave behind a select group of highly capable and devoted mercenaries who may be interested in joining the esteemed ranks of the Russian military. I trust that, under the guidance of the current leadership, they will continue to excel and make significant contributions to our collective goals.

I am deeply grateful for the support and guidance you have provided me throughout my tenure at Wagner. Your unwavering commitment to our nation's well-being has served as a constant inspiration. I am confident that under your astute leadership, Russia will continue to flourish and thrive.

I kindly request your understanding and approval of my resignation, along with any necessary arrangements that may be required during this transitional phase. This email serves as my formal notification, and I am prepared to provide any additional information or assistance as necessary.

Once again, I express my heartfelt appreciation for the opportunities entrusted to me and the confidence you have placed in my abilities. It has been an extraordinary journey, and I look forward to embracing new challenges and opportunities with a sense of anticipation and optimism.

Thank you for your attention, President Putin.

Yours sincerely,

Yevgeny Prigozhin
Former Head of Wagner

What do you mean?

"An agreement was reached on the return of PMC Wagner to their locations. Part of those who will wish to do so, will sign contracts with the Ministry of Defense — this concerns those who did not take part in the march, indeed, there were such formations which, from the very beginning, changed their minds and returned. They even requested to be escorted by the traffic police and other assistance in order to return to their permanent locations,"

more $$$

People say this, but how does any of this benefit Russia?

and mercs are generally a bad idea unless you run them…

Well the entire affair is basically a Prigozin response to Russia wanting to run them closer so they do know that. Interestingly enough his gamble was apparently to check if Russian government is really as weak as western and UA media says and the support in army is crumbling. It turned out that propaganda is wishful thinking and nobody outside Wagner Group supported the endeavour and afaik even a lot of Wagner personnel said they didn't sign up for that.

But, neither side could just admit they were in wrong so that's why Lukashenko proposal came in and now they can just talk and resolve it one way or another.