In Ukraine, the Wagner Group has played a significant role in the conflict that erupted in 2014. Initially, it provided support to pro-Russian separatists in the Donbas region, contributing to the destabilization efforts that led to the annexation of Crimea. Wagner operatives, often indistinguishable from regular troops, have been involved in various military operations, including reconnaissance, sabotage, and direct combat.

Their involvement has been marked by a blend of conventional and unconventional tactics, reflecting the hybrid nature of modern warfare. The group's presence in Ukraine underscores Russia's strategy of plausible deniability, allowing it to exert influence while officially denying direct involvement. This approach complicates international responses and challenges traditional military and diplomatic strategies.

The Wagner Group's activities in Ukraine highlight the blurred lines between state and non-state actors in contemporary conflicts. Their operations, often shrouded in secrecy, have raised significant concerns about accountability and the impact of private military companies on regional and global stability.