Why does Russia a country with one of the most modern armies, weapons and in its arsenal need mercenaries like the Wagner Group to fight on its behalf? The answer to this question becomes all the more relevant because Kremlin has increasingly relied on private and unaccountable armies like Wagner Group to ‘secretly’ pursue its foreign policy objectives without directly getting involved in different parts of the world – for instance in Africa, the Middle East and most recently Ukraine.
The Wagner Group officially known as PMC Wagner floated by Yevgeniy Prigozhin, a Putin crony and Dmitry Utkin, a former Russian special forces officer is a private military company (PMC) known for its involvement in various military operations, on behalf of the Russian government.
Wagner Group personnel have been accused of operating as a proxy force on behalf of the Russian government, committing widespread human rights abuses, providing support to separatist movements, and other serious criminal activities like mass executions, rape, and child abductions.
Even though Kremlin officially denies any connection with the activities of Russian mercenaries abroad, the Russian air force planes have reportedly been used to transport Wagner fighters on international missions.
According to Gen. Stephen Townsend, the head of the U.S. military’s Africa Command, “Wagner obeys no rules. They won’t follow the direction of the government.”
Mercenaries, also known as soldiers of fortune or private military contractors, are individuals or groups who are hired to engage in armed conflict or military operations. They are distinct from regular soldiers who serve in the armed forces and may be hired by governments, corporations, or other organizations to provide their services in areas like combat operations, security, training, logistical support, or intelligence gathering.
There are several differences between mercenaries and regular soldiers. While regular soldiers are subject to military codes of conduct and laws, mercenaries invariably operate in a legal grey area and are not bound by the rules of engagement, accountability or ethical and legal concerns as military personnel.
Here are some of the reasons why it makes sense to deploy mercenaries instead of a regular army
Plausible deniability
By employing mercenaries or PMCs like the Wagner Group, the Russian government can maintain plausible deniability regarding their involvement in conflicts. If these groups operate independently, it becomes easier for Russia to distance itself from any controversial or unlawful actions.
Reduced risk of army casualties and public backlash
Deploying mercenaries may potentially reduce the risk of casualties and minimize public backlash compared to regular army deployments. The loss of private military personnel is generally perceived as less politically sensitive than the loss of regular military personnel. This can be particularly relevant in situations where public support for military engagement is low or when governments aim to minimize domestic opposition to military interventions.
Flexibility in foreign interventions
PMCs can be deployed to various regions without the international scrutiny that official military interventions might attract. This allows Russia to exert influence in areas of interest without direct involvement or the risk of a large-scale military confrontation.
Geopolitical considerations
The use of mercenaries can further Russia’s geopolitical objectives without risking direct confrontation with other nations. They can be deployed in regions where Russia wants to maintain influence or support friendly regimes without overtly committing its own military forces.
Proxy warfare
The use of mercenaries aligns with Russia’s strategy of employing proxy forces in conflicts. By supporting and utilizing mercenary groups, Russia can extend its influence and pursue its interests in various regions without directly involving its own military forces.
Cost-effectiveness
Mercenaries can be a more cost-effective option for certain military operations. Hiring PMCs can be less expensive than deploying regular troops, as the mercenaries are often paid significantly less than regular soldiers and may not receive the same benefits or pensions.
Specialized expertise
PMCs often consist of personnel with specialized military skills and experience, including veterans from different armed forces. By employing these individuals, Russia can tap into their expertise in specific areas, such as unconventional warfare, intelligence gathering, or security training.
Testing ground for new weapons and tactics
PMCs may serve as a testing ground for new weapons, tactics, and strategies. By deploying mercenaries to conflicts, Russia can gather valuable data on the effectiveness of its military equipment and assess the performance of its personnel in real-world scenarios.
It’s important to note that the specific motivations and operations of the Wagner Group are not publicly disclosed, and much of the information surrounding their activities remains speculative or based on unofficial sources.
While the exact details and extent of its involvement are shrouded in secrecy, Wagner Group is understood to have allegedly been paid 86.26bn roubles ($1bn) between May 2022 and May 2023 by the Russian defence ministry and the state budget. The operations in which Wagner Group was involved include:
Ukraine
According to a report released by the US National Security Council, about 80% of the 50,000-odd Wagner troops in Ukraine came are ex-Russian convicts enlisted to fight in Ukraine. The ex-convicts have been promised that if they take part in Ukraine conflict for six months, their prison terms will be waived off and they would not have to go back to jail. In April 2023 the Russian State Duma the lower house of the Federal Assembly of Russia passed a bill that will allow Wagner Group mercenaries who take part in the Russia-Ukraine war will receive veteran and combat-disabled status.
Syria
Wagner Group has been actively supporting the government of President Bashar al-Assad in Syria and is involved in combat against various rebel forces and ISIS. Their role includes frontline combat, reconnaissance, and guarding strategic assets.
Libya
The Wagner Group has reportedly supported the forces of Gen Khalifa Haftar against the UN-recognized Government of National Accord (GNA) and provided military assistance, training, equipment, and advisory services.
Central African Republic (CAR)
The Wagner Group has been active in the CAR, where they have supported the government in its fight against rebel groups. They have provided military training, protection for government officials, and assistance in securing resource-rich areas.
Conclusion
The Wagner Group operates covertly, earning its mercenaries the moniker of “ghost soldiers.” These individuals work in secrecy, often without official acknowledgement or recognition. The term “ghost soldiers” emphasizes their elusive nature, as they operate without clear identification or public visibility. This clandestine approach adds to the enigma surrounding the Wagner Group and raises questions about its motives, affiliations, and impact on global affairs.
-The writer is a seasoned media professional with over three decades of experience in print, electronic, and web media. He is presently Editor of Taazakhabar News
–The writer is a seasoned media professional with over three decades of experience in print, electronic, and web media. He is presently Editor of Taazakhabar News. The views expressed are of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Raksha Anirveda
