Russia National Guard Tanks – New Units Revealed
Here’s a breakdown of the key information from the provided text, focusing on Rosgvardia (Russia’s National Guard):
* Increased Capabilities: Rosgvardia has been significantly upgraded since the Wagner mutiny in June 2023. They’ve been equipped with “self-propelled artillery and multiple-launch rocket systems.”
* Personnel Growth: By January 2024, Rosgvardia had 370,000 personnel, with plans for further increases. This is intended too maintain control within russia and in occupied territories of Ukraine.
* Formation & Leadership: Rosgvardia was established in 2016 as an internal security force directly reporting to Putin. Viktor Zolotov, a long-time Putin bodyguard (and previously Boris yeltsin’s), leads the force.
* Wagner Mutiny & Response: The reforms and upgrades began after the Wagner mercenary mutiny, during which Wagner fighters reached the outskirts of Moscow. Zolotov defended Rosgvardia’s lack of visible action during the mutiny, stating units where positioned to defend Moscow.
* Historical Viewpoint: Zolotov has referenced the 1991 coup attempt, believing decisive action could have prevented it.
* blame for Wagner Rebellion: Zolotov attributes the Wagner rebellion to Western influence (“inspired by the West”) or Prigozhin’s personal ambition.
* Original Purpose: Rosgvardia was created following protests demanding Putin’s resignation, indicating its role in internal security.