Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu has issued an order requiring all private military campaigns, including the notorious "Wagner" group, to sign contracts with the Ministry of Defense by July 1. The aim of this directive, as stated in the decree, is to enhance the operational effectiveness of these volunteer units and to optimize their utilization within the armed forces, the Ministry's press service reports.
However, Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the "Wagner" group, has expressed strong opposition to this order. He made it clear that the "Wagner" fighters will not comply with the requirement to sign a contract with the Ministry of Defense. Prigozhin emphasized that the orders issued by Shoigu pertain exclusively to the personnel of the Ministry of Defense and regular military forces, and they do not apply to the "Wagner" group.
Prigozhin defended the "Wagner" group's autonomy and claimed that they coordinate their actions with various military commanders. He asserted that the group is highly efficient, possessing extensive experience and maintaining a strong alignment with the interests of the Russian Federation and the Supreme Commander-in-Chief.
The refusal of "Wagner" and other mercenaries to sign contracts with the Ministry of Defense could potentially result in a denial of access to weapons and ammunition, as these resources are typically provided in response to specific requests and contractual agreements.
Prigozhin criticized Shoigu's management of military structures, implying that the minister lacks the ability to effectively oversee such units.
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