Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a desperate message to the Russian public on Monday night in an apparent attempt to retain his authority after the mercenaries' efforts.
In a six-minute address, Putin insisted he directly ordered steps were taken "to avoid a lot of bloodshed" during the mutiny which he claimed was "resolutely rejected by society".
This was despite clips appearing to show Rostov-on-Don residents bringing armed Wagner troops food and drinks as they occupied the city on Saturday.
Earlier on Monday Wagner mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin issued his first public statement since the aborted march on Moscow, claiming he had never intended to overthrow Putin's government.
In his first public comments since Saturday's dramatic events, he said the one-day mutiny was intended to be a protest at the ineffectual conduct of the war in Ukraine.
"I thank all our military personnel, law enforcement officers, special services who stood in the way of the rebels, remained faithful to their duty, oath and their people," he said.
"Today I once again appeal to all citizens of Russia. Thank you for your endurance, solidarity and patriotism. This civic solidarity has shown that any blackmail, any attempt to create internal turmoil is doomed to failure.
"I repeat, the highest consolidation of society, executive and legislative power at all levels was shown."
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Keep a civil tongue.