Russia
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday expressed his "condolences" over a plane crash that killed Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, describing him as a man who made mistakes but "achieved results".
An investigation is currently underway into what caused Wednesday's crash, which came exactly two months after Wagner's short-lived rebellion against Moscow's military leadership.
"First of all I want to express words of sincere condolences to the families of all the victims," Putin said in a televised meeting, calling the incident a "tragedy".
"I knew Prigozhin for a very long time, since the early 90s. He was a man of complicated fate, and he made serious mistakes in his life, but he achieved the right results," Putin added.
He said that an investigation had been launched into the crash, and that "it will take some time".
"It will be conducted in full and brought to a conclusion. There is no doubt about that," Putin said, in footage showing a meeting with the Russian-installed head of the Donetsk region Denis Pushilin.
The circumstances of the crash, which claimed the lives of some of Prigozhin's close entourage, have prompted furious speculation about a possible assassination.
01:00
Russian minister found dead hours after being dismissed
01:03
Russia becomes first country to recognise Afghanistan's Taliban government
01:14
Mali and Russia sign deal on nuclear energy during Goïta's Moscow visit
01:09
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi seeks Russian support from Vladimir Putin
00:57
Mali’s Goïta visits Moscow as Africa corps replaces Wagner in fight against Jihadists
02:04
Wagner Group faces war crime accusations over posting atrocities on social media