In a striking contradiction to its stated aim of 'denazifying' Ukraine, Russia has been enlisting the support of far-right paramilitary groups such as Rusich, known for their extreme nationalist and neo-Nazi ideologies. This revelation came to light through images shared on social media that showed young students in St. Petersburg attending a 'lesson of courage,' where they were addressed by members of Rusich, who are not conventional soldiers but rather brutal fighters with a notorious reputation. The Kremlin's embrace of such groups raises critical questions about the true nature of its military agenda in Ukraine.

The origins of Russia's military involvement in Ukraine trace back to December 2019 when President Vladimir Putin announced his intention to send troops to the region under the pretext of protecting against 'fascist' influences. However, the presence and actions of far-right paramilitary units challenge this narrative. While these groups have gained some public support, the Kremlin continues to face criticism both within Russia and internationally for its tolerance of extremist elements associated with its military strategy. This has heightened concerns about the ideological implications of Russia's war and the legitimization of extreme nationalist rhetoric within the country.

Analysts suggest that the surge in visible far-right nationalism since the invasion reflects a broader shift in Russian society, where such ideologies gain traction. As these groups gain a foothold, they influence public discourse, posing risks of normalizing extremist views. The Kremlin’s dual approach—claiming to fight a 'denazification' campaign while actively involving far-right factions—illustrates a complex and troubling narrative that poses challenges to understanding Russia's intentions and identity in the context of the ongoing conflict.