In this episode of Diplomacy and Discourse, A.R. talks with security expert and author Candace Rondeaux. Her new book, Putin’s Sledgehammer, explores the rise of the Wagner Group—a private army turned geopolitical power player—and its implications for global security.

Candace reveals how:

• Yevgeny Prigozhin transformed from caterer to commander
• Wagner shaped modern hybrid warfare, from Ukraine to Africa
• Private armies weaken state sovereignty and rewrite the rules of conflict

Thought-provoking and timely—this conversation is essential for anyone following power, warfare, and the future of peace.

Rondeaux, Candace. Putin’s Sledgehammer: The Wagner Group and Russia’s Collapse into Mercenary Chaos.

Putin’s Sledgehammer by Candace Rondeaux | Hachette Book Group

Putin's Sledgehammer: The Wagner Group and Russia’s Collapse into Mercenary Chaos: Rondeaux, Candace: 9781541703063: Amazon.com: Books