Kremlin Denies Ordering Prigozhin Assassination, Calls Western Allegations An 'Absolute Lie'

Kremlin officials on Friday vehemently denied Western accusations that they ordered the assassination of Wagner mercenary leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin, labeling the accusations an “absolute lie.”

The denial comes on the heels of inquiries into the mysterious plane crash that allegedly claimed Prigozhin’s life and several others.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov urges observers to rely on facts, which are still unfolding, according to Reuters.

“There is now a great deal of speculation surrounding this plane crash and the tragic deaths of the plane’s passengers, including Yevgeny Prigozhin" Peskov said. "Of course, in the West, all this speculation is presented from a well-known angle.”

“All of this is an absolute lie, and here, when covering this issue, it is necessary to base yourself on facts,” the Kremlin spokesperson continued.

While Russia’s aviation authority indicated Prigozhin was on the ill-fated jet, the Kremlin is hesitant to confirm pending "test" results.

President Vladimir Putin broke his silence on the incident, Benzinga reported Thursday, sending condolences to Prigozhin’s family. However, Russia's president stopped short of confirming Prigozhin’s death.

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Putin’s comments follow months after Prigozhin led a mutiny against Russian military leaders.

The White House also chimed in — Adrienne Watson, White House National Security Spokesperson, said, "We have seen the reports. If confirmed, no one should be surprised."

Meanwhile, Putin previously remarked about Prigozhin’s past and acknowledged “serious mistakes” in his life.

As investigations unfold, several theories circulate the cause of the crash. Preliminary assessments from U.S. officials hint at potential assassination rather than a missile strike.

Speculations on social media channels linked to Wagner Group suggest a missile might be responsible. All claims are still unverified.

The crash adds another layer to the already intricate relationship between Prigozhin, Wagner Group, and Kremlin, especially after the brief mutiny in June.

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