 Prigozin challenges Putin and Russian authorities. The owner of the Russian Wagner group, Yevgeny Prigozin, who has previously sharply criticized the Russian Ministry of Defense, has now challenged the head of the Kremlin, Vladimir Putin, according to UK Defence Intelligence. UK Defence Intelligence recalled that on the 10th of June, the Russian Ministry of Defense stated that all volunteers formations, such as the Wagner group, should sign contracts directly with the Russian Ministry of Defense. Speaking on television on the 13th of June, Putin directly supported this move. The UK Ministry of Defense noted that Prigozin has sharply criticised the leadership of the Russian Ministry of Defense, but relied on Putin's authority. However, despite Putin's comments, Prigozin said on the 14th of June that none of Wagner's fighters is ready to go down the path of shame again. That's why they will not sign the contracts. Prigozin's rhetoric is evolving into defiance of broader sections of the Russian establishment. On the 1st of July 2023, the headline for the volunteers to sign contracts is likely to be a key waypoint in the feud, the report said. In a rare direct show of defiance towards the Russian leader, Prigozin said none of Wagner's fighters is ready to go down the path of shame again. That's why they will not sign the contracts.