- Born 1st June, 1961 in Leningrad.
- In 1981, sentenced to twelve years imprisonment for robbery and fraud.
- Began selling hot dogs in 1990 after early release from prison.
- Expanded business operations in 1995, ran popular and successful restaurants.
- Grew closer to Putin in the 2000s, served international leaders including Chirac and George Bush.
- Became known as “Putin’s chef”, had received government contracts and grew increasingly wealthy.
- Established Wagner Group in 2014 to support Russian forces in the war in Donbas.
- Operations expanded to Syria and Africa, became key player in 2022 Ukraine War.
- His troops led successful campaign to take Bakhmut earlier this year.
- Now leading rebellion against Putin and Russia’s military