Wagner, the Russian mercenary force behind an attempted coup in Russia earlier this year, is going to be designated a terrorist organisation.
Following its prominent role in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Home Office revealed today that a draught proscription order will be brought before Parliament against the “violent and destructive” organisation.
It is also known for operating in Syria as well as a number of African countries such as Sudan, Libya, and Mali.
The order makes it illegal to be a member or supporter of Wagner Group, and its assets can be seized. Certain proscription violations can result in up to 14 years in prison or a £5,000 fine.
The group was banned after the Home Office considered the nature and magnitude of its activities, as well as the harm they pose to British nationals abroad.
The Wagner Group will now be added to the list of banned organisations in the UK, alongside Hamas and Boko Haram.
“Wagner is a violent and destructive organisation that has acted as a military tool of Vladimir Putin’s Russia overseas,” said Home Secretary Suella Braverman.
“While Putin’s regime decides what to do with the monster it created, Wagner’s continuing destabilising activities only serve the Kremlin’s political goals.”
“They are terrorists, plain and simple, and this proscription order establishes that in UK law.”
“Wagner has participated in plundering, torturing, and heinous murders. Its activities in Ukraine, the Middle East, and Africa endanger world security. That is why we have sanctioned this terrorist outfit and will continue to assist Ukraine in its struggle against Russia in whatever way we can.”
Newly appointed Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said using insignia or logos belonging to Wagner would be banned.
He told LBC: “We’ve seen how Wagner operate. Obviously we’ve seen the devastating impact they’ve had or tried to have in Ukraine, but they also operate in Africa or across the Sahel. And we do not want to see that organisation here. Prescribing them means that becomes illegal once Parliament passes it.”