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Source: The Daily Star

Russian President Vladimir Putin pledged on Saturday to quell what he called an armed rebellion after rogue mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigozhin announced he had taken control of a southern city in an attempt to destabilize the military leadership.

The rapid change, with many specifics unclear, appeared to be the most serious internal issue Putin has faced since ordering a full-scale invasion of Ukraine – dubbed a “special military operation” – in February last year.

Putin claimed in a televised address that “excessive ambitions and vested interests have led to treason,” adding that the mutiny was a “stab in the back.” “It is a setback for Russia and our people.” And our responses to such a threat to the Fatherland will be stern.”

“All those who deliberately chose the path of betrayal, who planned an armed insurgency, who used blackmail and terrorist methods will face unavoidable punishment, and will answer both to the law and to our people,” Putin stated.