US to train Ukrainian pilots in F16 jets as Wagner Group’s future remains uncertain

In Russia, the Kremlin has described claims that it was involved Yevgeny Prigozhin’s presumed death as – quote – “an absolute lie.” This comes after President Vladimir Putin sent his condolences to his family, saying Prigozhin had made mistakes but achieved results. Russian authorities say the Wagner mercenary leader was listed as a passenger on a flight that crashed with no survivors. He had been one of Putin’s most important allies – until June, when he led an armed rebellion against Moscow’s military leadership. The United States says it will train Ukrainian pilots to fly F16 fighters, after European countries pledged to give Kyiv the jets. The Pentagon said that flight training would begin in the US state of Arizona in October. Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway have all announced that they will provide Ukraine with the advanced US-made aircraft. Kyiv has long been seeking the jets to bolster its Soviet-era air force – but training will likely take several months. Russia’s presence in the African continent heavily depends on the Wagner Group. But now, after the possible death of the head of the Wagner group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, there is uncertainty about the private military’s role. Many African countries depend on Russia for economic aid. Russia exerts its influence also through military cooperation. This often involves the Wagner Group. The mercenary group has been active in countries like Mali, Sudan, Libya, and Central African Republic. Wagner is also accused of political interference in these countries.