European Deputies, as well as the Bulgarian Socialists, want Sanctions against Russia's Private Army

The EU must sanction Russia's private army, known as the Wagner Group.

This is what a European Parliament resolution calls for, adopted by an overwhelming majority of 585 votes in favor. Curiously, it is supported by all five Bulgarian Socialist MEPs. They usually either oppose or abstain in a vote against Russia.

MEPs strongly condemn the horrific crimes committed by Wagner and related paramilitary groups in various conflict zones. There are serious indications that the Russian state is responsible for the financing, training, management and operational command of these groups. The activities of the Private Military Company (PMC), as Wagner is called, coincide with the spread of Russia's influence in these areas. Therefore, both this company and other Russian-led security contractors should be treated as organizations acting in Moscow's interests.

The Wagner PMC is present in many conflict zones around the world, MEPs recall. These are mainly Ukraine, Syria, Sudan, Mozambique, Libya, the Central African Republic (CAR) and Venezuela.

The resolution recalls that the Kremlin's use of private military and security companies is based on the Soviet Union's long experience of acting through fake forces abroad. Thousands of military specialists are being sent to conflict zones under the pretext of being advisers. At the same time, Russian participation is officially denied. We also recall Vladimir Putin's statement of April 11, 2012. He was then Prime Minister of Russia and said the following:

"A group of private military companies would be an effective tool for achieving national goals without the direct involvement of the Russian state."

Given the serious data, the MEPs welcome the statement...

Continue reading on: