Russian mercenaries seize military sites
- The chief of the Wagner mercenary force has called for a rebellion against the Russian army – although he has denied attempting a coup
- Wagner says it has taken the Russian city of Rostov-on-Don near the Ukraine border – residents have been told to stay indoors
- BBC News Russian sources also say Wagner mercenaries have seized military facilities in Voronezh, which is halfway between Rostov and Moscow
- And as mercenaries move towards Moscow, the mayor of the capital city has told residents to avoid travelling
- President Putin decries “betrayal” and “treason” in a TV speech, promising to punish rebels
- On Friday night, security in Russia was tightened, the internet was restricted and military trucks were spotted on Moscow streets
Throughout the day, Wagner troops appear to have been moving north towards Moscow.
Earlier this afternoon, the governor of the region of Lipetsk, south of Moscow, confirmed that Wagner was crossing the region, with video showing a convoy heading north.
And Russian authorities appear to be seriously concerned that Wagner troops will make it to Moscow – soon.
A short while ago, a video posted on Telegram and verified by the BBC showed lorries blocking a bridge 97km (60 miles) from the outskirts of Moscow. A screenshot of the video is below.
The mayor of Moscow has also announced the start of a “counter-terrorist operation regime”.
What special measures have been introduced in Moscow?
The mayor of Moscow has just announced that Monday will be a “non-working day” and asked people to restrict their movement around the city, as the capital braces for possible repercussions of the Wagner rebellion.
Earlier, Russian authorities announced a “counter-terrorist operation” in the city of Moscow, the Moscow region, and Voronezh region to south.
This gives authorities a number of special powers including:
- Restricting the movements of people and transport
- Monitoring or restricting communications
- The right to search people and vehicles
- Evacuating the population if needed
Source : BBC news
