Kremlin: Prigozhin's plane crash may have been 'intentional'

Speaking to reporters at a daily briefing, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted that "there are various hypotheses" about what happened in connection with the crash of Mr Prigozhin's plane and they are "being considered", including "deliberate misconduct".

The statement hinted at the possibility that the plane was "purposely brought down" and was the first admission that Mr Prigozhin may have been assassinated, according to Reuters .

Mr Peskov urged reporters to wait until the investigation by the Russian Investigative Committee (RIC) is over. Last week, the RIC announced that it had opened a criminal case over alleged violations of flight safety. Such charges are usually filed when Russian investigators have no reason to suspect a crime.

Điện Kremlin: Vụ rơi máy bay chở ông Prigozhin có thể là hành động cố ý - Ảnh 1.

Scene of the plane crash carrying Mr. Prigozhin. Photo: Sputnik

Some Western media outlets have suggested that Moscow may have been behind the crash of Prigozhin’s plane. However, the Kremlin has dismissed this “speculation” and called the accusations “absolute lies.” Russian President Vladimir Putin has pledged to thoroughly investigate the incident.

A commercial plane carrying Mr. Prigozhin, the founder and head of the private military company Wagner, and his top deputies crashed en route from Moscow to St. Petersburg last week, killing all 10 people on board.

The plane was built by Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer. Responding to reports that Russia had refused to help with the investigation from Brazilian aviation authorities, Peskov said the investigation would be carried out domestically.

Mr. Prigozhin was buried in his hometown of St. Petersburg in a private ceremony that was kept secret until the evening of August 29.

Pham Nghia

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