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The Kremlin has denied allegations from a Wall Street Journal report suggesting that the Russian Wagner mercenary group is planning to supply Hezbollah with air defense systems.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed the report, which was based on unidentified US intelligence sources, stating the claims were baseless and that the Wagner group effectively does not exist under Russian law.

Further addressing the report, Peskov reiterated that unsubstantiated claims are typically unfounded and that any genuine concerns should be communicated through established military channels between Russia and the United States.

The disputed report from The Wall Street Journal had claimed that the Wagner Group intends to transfer the Pantsir-S1 air defense system, capable of intercepting aircraft, to Hezbollah through Syria. Despite these claims, US officials have not confirmed the transfer of the defense system, although they are reportedly keeping a close watch on discussions between Wagner and Hezbollah.