ISW explains Prigozhin's claims about "network of underground cities" around Bakhmut

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) shared the information in its usual report on Russia's offensive campaign.

Prigozhin's statements are likely an attempt to explain the slow pace of Wagner group's advance around Bakhmut, but may also partially explain his months-long and costly determination to establish control over the territory, experts say.

The former Russian officer turned blogger criticized Prigozhin and Russian commanders, saying that they knew about the existence of these mines when developing the offensive plan, and rejected the allegations that historical weapons were present in the area.

The blogger noted that even if Russian troops capture Soledar, Prigozhin and the Russian military will lose strategically because they will throw their best forces into a battle of attrition.

Wagner PMC financier also continues to publicly ally himself with elected Russian governors in an effort to increase his influence and advance his personal interests in Russia.

Roman Starovoit, governor of the Kursk region, Russia, visited Wagner's training base. Russian media claimed that Starovoit even received an offer to sign a contract with Wagner, which he declined due to his civic duties.

"Some Russian outlets even framed Starovoit’s visit to the training ground as model behavior for a Russian politician, further boosting Prigozhin’s image as a patriotic wartime leader in the Russian information space. Prigozhin is likely attempting to rally up support for the legalization of Wagner Group in Russia," the Institute added.

• Earlier, Reuters, citing sources in the White House, reported that Prigozhin intends to gain control over the salt and gypsum mines of Bakhmut.
• Later, Prigozhin explained why Russia needs Bakhmut. According to him, "the vicinity of Bakhmut is a complex of settlements that create a single defense system. This is a unique landscape, ravines and heights that are natural tunnels."