 Russia's Defense Ministry said on June 12 it has signed a contract with the Akhmat Group of Chechen Special Forces, a day after Russia's powerful mercenary chief Yevgeny Prigazin refused to do so. The signing followed an order that all volunteer units should sign contracts by July 1 bringing them under the control of Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, as Moscow tries to assert its control over private armies fighting on its behalf in Ukraine. In return, volunteer fighters would get the same benefits and protections as regular troops, including support for them and their families if they are wounded or killed. Prigazin, who has waged a running feud with the Defense Ministry and accused it of failing to provide adequate ammunition supplies to his Wagner mercenaries in Ukraine, said on Sunday he would refuse to sign any such contract.