Tensions Rise as Kremlin-Backed Allies Clash in Ukraine and Chechnya.

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) has suggested that recent criticism of Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin by Chechen officials could be part of the Kremlin's efforts to discredit and undermine the mercenary boss. The ISW noted that the public denunciations began after Prigozhin said he had been aware of Chechen military forces taking new positions in Ukraine and that he didn't know these troops would be concentrating their operations on settlements, as opposed to all of the Donetsk region. The think tank added that the attacks on Prigozhin's character may be a part of the Kremlin's efforts to discredit and undermine him as his forces withdraw from the frontlines.