After Vladimir Putin’s army were accused of conducting a missile attack against its allies, it is looking more and more like Russia is headed for civil war, with 25,000 mercenaries from the Wagner Group standing by to settle the score.

Wagner Group boss Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is known as Putin’s chef, launched an explosive audio message against Moscow’s military leadership.

He said: “We were ready to make concessions to the Defense Ministry, surrender our weapons.

“Today, seeing that we have not been broken, they conducted missile strikes at our rear camps.”

Prigozhin continued: “The council of commanders of PMC Wagner has made a decision — the evil that the military leadership of the country brings must be stopped.”

The Wagner Group chief added: “We’re 25,000 strong, and we’re going to get to the bottom of the lawlessness in this country.

“Twenty-five-thousand are waiting as a tactical reserve, while the strategic reserve is the entire army and the entire country.

“Everyone who wants to, join us.”

Meanwhile, public speculated on social media whether this meant that Russia is headed towards a civil war.

A person wrote, “I did not have “Russian civil war” on my 2023 bingo card. This is wild.” Meanwhile another said, “I am going on vacation for a week starting at 5pm today so if there’s gonna be a Russian civil war they need to make it quick.”

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov also said Putin was aware of the “unfolding situation”.

He added that all “necessary measures” were being taken.

Russian media outlets later confirmed Moscow had sanctioned Prigozhin over his comments.

The National Anti-Terrorism Committee announced: “The allegations spread on behalf of Yevgeny Prigozhin have no basis.

“In connection with these statements, the FSB of Russia initiated a criminal case on the fact of calling for an armed rebellion. We demand an immediate stop to illegal actions.”