Russian national guard integrating former Wagner units into its ranks, states UK Ministry of Defence

According to the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MOD), Russia’s national guard, also known as Rosgvardia, is incorporating three previous Wagner assault detachments into its initial volunteer corps formation.

In an intelligence update released on X, the MOD highlighted that Russian president Vladimir Putin signed a law on December 25th last year, permitting Rosgvardia to establish its own volunteer units. Rosgvardia is often referred to as Putin’s “private army.”

The statement further elaborated:

“Rosgvardia is likely to deploy its new volunteer detachments to Ukraine and Africa. Reportedly, Rosgvardia is offering six-month contracts to volunteers for service in Ukraine and nine-month contracts for service in Africa.

The inclusion of former Wagner assault detachments in Rosgvardia’s volunteer corps strongly suggests that Wagner has been successfully placed under Rosgvardia’s control, thereby enhancing the Russian state’s command and authority over the Wagner group.”