Finland detains ex-Wagner fighter for illegal border crossing, faces war crimes charges

Finnish border authorities have detained a former Wagner Group fighter who attempted to illegally cross into Finland.

The individual was apprehended on June 17 near the forested area of Väylivaara in the municipality of Kitee, after motion sensors detected unauthorised movement along the border, Caliber.Az reports, citing Finnish media. 

Finnish border guards responded swiftly and took the suspect into custody.

The man, known by his first name Yevgeny, was apprehended by the North Karelia Border Guard on 17 June near the town of Kitee.

Yevgeny publicly identified himself as a Wagner soldier on social media and recently posted videos harshly criticising Russia's military leadership for abandoning soldiers and deceiving families.

He accused Russian commanders of leaving troops "to rot in the fields" and described brutal treatment within the ranks.

The man requested political asylum in Finland. However, authorities have charged him with war crimes allegedly committed prior to his arrival. He remains in detention while the investigation continues.

Yevgeny reportedly served as a company commander in Russia's 433rd Motorised Rifle Regiment — a unit engaged in rapid and aggressive assault operations. Military expert Major (res.) Marko Eklund says such units are particularly prone to high casualties.

Yevgeny has said he voluntarily joined Russian forces in 2022 and received training from Wagner. He also claims to have fought in Bakhmut, where Wagner played a central role and has been linked to war crimes including the execution of prisoners of war.

By Khagan Isayev