Russia’s invasion forces have tightened the noose around Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine with help from a paramilitary outfit called the Wagner Group. Heading the group is one of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s close confidants -- Yevgeny Prigozhin. WSJ’s Benoit Faucon explains why the Wagner Group has been drawing condemnation for its deployments in several global hotspots.

Further Reading and Watching:

- Wagner: How Russian Mercenaries Help Putin in Ukraine 

- Russia Tightens Grip Around Bakhmut as Ukraine Awaits Western Tanks 

- As Russian Army Falters in Ukraine, Paramilitary Leader Close to Putin Flexes Power 

- Russia Leans on Mercenary Forces to Regain Global Clout 

Further Listening:

- Russia’s Campaign to Leave Ukraine in the Dark 

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