Russian President Vladimir Putin told 2,500 military personnel on Tuesday they averted a “civil war” in Russia during his second televised address since armed Wagner mercenaries marched toward Moscow Saturday, threatening his 24-year rule and causing Western nations and China to question his strength.
What Happened: While attempting to portray unity between his administration and Russian troops, Putin applauded the actions of his military, stating that “in a difficult situation [they] acted clearly and coherently,” according to Bloomberg. “You in fact prevented a civil war,” Putin told the troops.
