Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu appeared publicly for the first time after the Wagner mercenary group’s brief rebellion. A video released by the Russian Ministry of Defense showed Shoigu and General Yevgeny Nikiforov, the commander of the Zapad military group, together in a helicopter. During the flight, Shoigu observed the command post led by Nikiforov and received updates on the situation in Ukraine. The visit also involved the establishment of new reserve forces for the Zapad group, highlighting the Russian army’s proficiency in identifying and neutralizing enemy military assets.

Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigojin demanded the surrender of Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov, accusing them of incompetence and corruption.