LONDON, June 24 (Reuters) - Britain's defence ministry said on Saturday that the Russian state was facing its greatest security challenge of recent times, following what it said appeared to be a move by Wagner Group mercenary forces towards Moscow.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said in an emergency televised address on Saturday that an "armed mutiny" by the Wagner Group was treason, and that anyone who had taken up arms against the Russian military would be punished.
"Over the coming hours, the loyalty of Russia's security forces, and especially the Russian National Guard, will be key to how this crisis plays out," Britain's defence ministry said in a regular intelligence update.
"This represents the most significant challenge to the Russian state in recent times," it added.
"With very limited evidence of fighting between Wagner and Russian security forces, some have likely remained passive, acquiescing to Wagner," the defence ministry added.
Persons:
Vladimir Putin, Wagner, Britain, David Milliken, Toby Chopra
Organizations:
Wagner Group, Russian National Guard, Thomson
Locations:
Moscow, Russian, Ukraine, Russia, Rostov, Voronezh Oblast, Britain