Trump on Russia-Wagner dispute: ‘Be careful what you wish for’

Former President Trump said internal strife in Russia between the country’s military and mercenaries is “a big mess.”

Wagner mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin announced his intentions Friday to use his mercenary forces to overthrow the Russian military leadership, accusing them of lying to the Russian people and firing on his troops.

Once his forces took over a military headquarters in Rostov-on-Don and began marching toward Moscow, the government of Belarus stepped in to negotiate an agreement to avoid bloodshed. On Saturday, Prigozhin ordered his troops to turn around.

“A big mess in Russia, but be careful what you wish for. Next in may be far worse!” Trump said on Truth Social.

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Related coverage from The Hill

• Wagner chief says he’s ordered forces to cease advance toward Moscow to avoid bloodshed
• Moscow suspends mass outdoor events, residents told to avoid traveling as Wagner mercenaries advance
• Belarus expresses support for Russia amid Wagner uprising
• Zelensky: ‘Russia’s weakness is obvious’ amid Wagner rebellion
• European leaders convene emergency meetings in response to ‘chaos’ in Russia

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The message was sent just as the negotiated settlement was announced.

Trump’s commentary adds to his history of criticism President Biden’s reaction to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which began last year. Trump said that, if elected, he would “solve” the war within 24 hours and blamed the U.S. exit from Afghanistan for emboldening Putin to invade.

During his administration, Trump met with Putin and praised him as a good leader. Last year, Trump called Putin a “genius,” leading to criticism from his own party.