Uncertainty looms over future of Russian mercenaries in Ukraine under Wagner Group leadership.

The head of Russia's Wagner Group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, has said he is "not sure" if his mercenaries will continue to fight in Ukraine after a bitter standoff with the Defence Ministry. The ministry has set a contract deadline of July 1 for volunteer military units to sign up with it, but Prigozhin has refused to do so, citing poor leadership and tactics. Wagner fighters have been among Russia's most effective in Ukraine, but any attempt by Prigozhin to disengage from the war could be seen as treasonous by officials in Moscow.