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Everything you need to know about the Wagner mercenary group

"Moscow's shadow army" is more unscrupulous than you think

Everything you need to know about the Wagner mercenary group
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StarsInsider
23/02/2026 13:00 ‧ 1 day ago | StarsInsider

LIFESTYLE

Russia

A mercenary (or paramilitary) group is a private entity that joins a military conflict for personal profit and is otherwise an outsider to the conflict. And while this practice isn't totally foreign to countries like the US, it's especially alarming

to learn that mercenaries are conducting various operations and crimes worldwide, while evading punishment through legal loopholes and the cloak of non-governmental privacy.

The Wagner Group, often referred to as "Moscow's shadow army," appears to fulfill Russia's objectives while operating largely in secrecy. Recent assessments from European intelligence officials indicate that the group is now expanding its activities into Europe, presenting a new and pressing threat.

From its leaders' shady past and questionable recruitment methods, to its ties with the Russian government, click through to learn everything you need to know about the Wagner Group.

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