In a concerning development, the vanguard units of the Wagner mercenary company have reportedly reached the outskirts of Borisoglebsk in Russia’s Voronezh Oblast. According to Atesh, a partisan movement in Russia-occupied Ukrainian territory, the Wagner forces may be aiming to seize a warehouse housing nuclear weapons. The information was shared on Telegram on June 24, citing an agent from the Wagner Group.

The warehouse in question, known as “375 Facility ‘C’,” falls under the control of the Russian Defense Ministry’s Department 12th. Atesh suggests that the Russian Armed Forces might be ill-equipped to protect the warehouse with their own forces due to limited resources. The situation demands a significant number of tanks, artillery, and professional infantry, potentially requiring at least a brigade. However, the lack of available troops makes it necessary to withdraw operational reserves from the front lines for reinforcement.

As tensions escalate around the Voronezh nuclear facility, Atesh predicts an increase in hostilities between the Wagner mercenaries and regime-loyal Russian government forces. The potential confrontation could have far-reaching implications and further intensify the ongoing conflict.

The situation is exacerbated by the recent declaration of war by Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin against the Russian Defense Ministry. Prigozhin alleges that his mercenaries’ military camp was attacked by the Russian army, adding to his longstanding feud with Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. Reports indicate that Wagner mercenaries have already taken control of military facilities in Rostov and Voronezh on June 24. Prigozhin has demanded access to Russia’s top military leadership, threatening to advance towards Moscow.

In response to the escalating situation, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin stated on June 24 that the military has been ordered to “neutralize those who organized the insurrection.” This declaration highlights the gravity of the situation and the potential consequences of the ongoing conflict.

Earlier intelligence reports from Ukraine indicated that preparations were being made for a siege in Moscow, with military equipment being brought into the capital city and increased security measures being implemented.

The situation remains highly volatile, and the potential seizure of a warehouse housing nuclear weapons by Wagner mercenaries poses a significant threat to regional stability. The international community will closely monitor the developments and hope for a swift resolution that ensures the safety of the nuclear weapons and mitigates the risk of further escalation.