Russian forces under Vladimir Putin have issued a provocative threat to NATO by navigating a vessel displaying the flag of the notorious Wagner private army near the EU border. Footage captured the border force ship, associated with Moscow’s secretive FSB security service, patrolling the Narva River close to the NATO territory. Estonia, concerned about potential Russian aggression, has requested an official explanation from Moscow, which has yet to respond to the incident.
The Wagner private military company, once home to a large number of mercenaries, played a significant role in Putin’s initial incursion into Ukraine before a falling out with its leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, who was previously Putin’s chef. In June 2023, Prigozhin led a failed coup against Putin over disagreements regarding the company’s control by the Russian army. Two months later, Prigozhin perished in a plane crash believed to be orchestrated by the Kremlin.
With an estimated 5,000 soldiers, Wagner still conducts military operations in Africa on behalf of the Kremlin and possibly maintains a limited presence in Ukraine. The display of the Wagner flag on the Narva River, a tense boundary between Russia and NATO member Estonia, has raised suspicions of potential disloyalty to Putin or indications of renewed hostilities towards Moscow.
Margus Tsahkna, the Foreign Minister of Tallinn, remarked on the situation, suggesting uncertainties about the intentions of the Wagnerites towards Moscow. He questioned whether the group’s actions signify a resurgence of Prigozhin’s influence in Russia or a potential move towards St. Petersburg. The Estonian government views the incident as a sign of cracks in Russia’s authoritarian system due to the consequences of its aggressive actions and Western pressure.
The Estonian foreign ministry declared vigilance over the situation on the Narva River, emphasizing that any Russian activities are closely monitored. Notably, Russia and Estonia share a 183-mile border, with British troops deployed under Operation Cabrit to support NATO’s presence in Estonia alongside French and local forces at the Tapa military camp, located approximately 80 miles from the Russian border.