Mumbai, September 9: Yevgeny Prigozhin, the former head of the Wagner Group and a prominent figure with ties to the Russian government, is believed to be alive and well, contrary to initial reports of his death in a plane crash near Moscow on August 23. A Russian political analyst, Dr Valery Solovey, has claimed that Prigozhin is currently hiding out on the Caribbean island of Margarita, a part of Venezuela. Ukrainian authorities have expressed doubts regarding the reported death of Prigozhin, further fueling speculation.

According to the Daily Star reports, Solovey, known for his controversial political theories, also suggested that Prigozhin had received a warning about the impending plane crash, allowing him to avoid the fatal incident. Solovey stated, "Yevgeny Prigozhin was warned about his assassination, that his plane would be destroyed." Additionally, the political analyst suggested that Prigozhin might be allowed to return to Russia following President Vladimir Putin's eventual departure from power. Yevgeny Prigozhin 'Last Video': Clip of Wagner Chief Recorded 'Before' His Death in Plane Crash Goes Viral, Creates Confusion.

He implied that Prigozhin could play a role in determining the future leadership of the country. Furthermore, Solovey claimed that Prigozhin could control up to 5,000 mercenaries, potentially forming a death squad to eliminate resistance against a new ruling coalition associated with Nikolai Patrushev, the secretary of the Russian Security Council. Solovey's statements, however, have drawn scepticism due to his history of promoting conspiracy theories. Yevgeny Prigozhin Death: Vladimir Putin Confirms Wagner Chief Died in Tver Plane Crash, Calls Him 'Talented Businessman'.

Ukrainian authorities have stated the need for confirmed facts regarding Prigozhin's fate, emphasising that they have confirmed the deaths of other Wagner Group associates. The mystery surrounding Yevgeny Prigozhin's status continues to deepen, leaving questions about his role and influence within the Russian power structure.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 09, 2023 05:47 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).