Russia Signs Defence Contract with Chechen Special Forces for Ukrainian Offensive

Leader of Akhmat Group
Image Credit: Google

Russia's defence ministry has recently signed a contract with the Akhmat group, a Chechen paramilitary force, as part of the Kremlin's offensive in the Donetsk region of eastern Ukraine.

This development follows the refusal of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the chief of Russia's Wagner group of private mercenaries, to sign a similar contract.

The contracts are part of a new Russian law aimed at bringing private armies under the control of Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu by July 1.

Akhmat Group Accepts the Contract:

The announcement of the contract with the Akhmat group came after its leader, Ramzan Kadyrov, accepted the offer.

Akhmat commander Apty Alaudinov expressed his approval, stating that the group has sent tens of thousands of volunteers to Ukraine over the past 15 months. 

By signing the defense contract, volunteer fighters would receive the same benefits as regular troops, according to the Kremlin. 

Chechen Fighters in Ukraine:

According to a report by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), Chechen fighters have been active in areas behind the front line in Ukraine, participating in intense battles in cities such as Mariupol, Severodonetsk, and Lysychansk. 

However, with the escalation of fighting in Russia's Belgorod, it is likely that Kadyrov's troops have been ordered to take a leading role in the Ukrainian offensive. 

Prigozhin's Refusal and Criticism:

Yevgeny Prigozhin, chief of the Wagner group, has refused to sign any contracts with Defence Minister Shoigu. 

In an audio message, he criticized the defence ministry, claiming it does not provide sufficient support to his troops in Ukraine. 

Prigozhin has been vocal in his disdain for Russia's military leadership, often releasing foul-mouthed video tirades.

Russia's Hope for Other Volunteer Units:

Russia's deputy chief of the general staff, Colonel General Alexei Kim, expressed hope that other volunteer units would follow the example set by the Akhmat group and sign the defence contract. 

The new law aims to bring all "volunteer units" fighting on Moscow's behalf in Ukraine under the control of the defence minister, ensuring greater coordination and oversight. 

Lastly:

The recent signing of a defence contract between Russia's defence ministry and the Chechen Akhmat group highlights the efforts to control and regulate private armies involved in the Ukrainian offensive. 

While some groups, like the Wagner group, have refused to sign such contracts, the Kremlin aims to bring all volunteer units under the authority of Defence Minister Shoigu. 

This move has implications for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the role of paramilitary forces in Russia's military operations.

(Courtesy: Al-Jazeera)