The Wagner mercenary group has played a prominent role in some of the fiercest fighting in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, but its future has been in doubt after its leader Yevgeny Prigozhin was killed in a plane crash in August.

Mr Kadyrov said in a Telegram message that a large group of Wagner veterans were undergoing intensive training with his own Akhmat special forces.

“I am very happy that today the ranks of the famous Akhmat unit have included fighters with excellent combat experience who have proven themselves to be brave and effective fighters... I am confident that in the upcoming battles they will live up to their reputation,” he said.

He posted a video showing soldiers in combat training, some wearing Wagner insignia on their uniforms and face masks. Kadyrov said the exercise included shooting, field medical training and training for snipers, machine gunners, commandos and artillerymen.

It is unclear how many Wagner soldiers are involved or whether any of them will remain with the Chechen forces after the training ends.

Mr Putin has moved former Wagner fighters under state military control, requiring them to sign an oath of allegiance, and the Kremlin has repeatedly stated that the group does not exist as a legal entity.

Mai Anh (according to Sputnik, CNA)