Russia Hands Occupied Mariupol to Chechen Forces as "Payment," Partisans Say

Russian authorities are transferring control of the occupied Ukrainian city of Mariupol to Chechen military units, according to local partisan reports. The groups say this is a "payment" for the Chechen fighters' loyalty. The partisans, who oppose the Russian occupation, report that new Chechen forces, known as "Akhmat" units, are now arriving in the city. Their information suggests Russia is giving these units authority over Mariupol's key industrial assets. Mariupol was captured by Russian forces in May 2022 after a brutal siege. Rebuilding its industry is a major Russian wartime goal. Handing control to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov's troops appears to be a political reward. This move could strengthen Kadyrov's influence within Russian-occupied Ukraine. It may also create new challenges for Ukrainian efforts to reclaim the strategically important port city.