While Russia Says It Is ‘Denazifying’ Ukraine, Far-Right Groups Are Fighting for Moscow - The Moscow Times
Moscow Times
February 24, 2026
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While Russia continues to claim its mission in Ukraine is about "denazifying" and "demilitarizing" the country, evidence suggests the opposite: far-right paramilitary groups like Rusich, known for their neo-Nazi ties and brutal tactics, are actively supported by Moscow. These groups operate alongside Russian troops, with some even receiving recognition from state institutions. For instance, Rusich fighters were invited to speak at a "lesson of courage" in St. Petersburg schools, despite their notorious history of mutilating Ukrainian soldiers and advocating for ritual sacrifices.
The Kremlin's tolerance of such groups raises concerns about the normalization of far-right ideologies within Russia. Experts note that while the war hasn't necessarily increased public support for these ideas, it has emboldened individuals to express them openly. Nationalist movements have grown more visible since the invasion, with some groups receiving state approval as long as they align with Moscow's pro-war stance.
Rusich, led by neo-Nazi Alexei Milchakov, is among the most extreme of these groups. Known for atrocities in Ukraine and Syria, Rusich has openly called for violence against Ukrainian prisoners of war and even sought to perform ritual sacrifices. Despite these actions, Milchakov has been praised by a school administration for his "civic-patriotic education," highlighting how normalized such extremism has become.
Critics within Russia have attempted to challenge this trend. Lawmakers like Mikhail Sheremet and Anatoly Wasserman have filed complaints accusing Rusich of war crimes, while others, such as Yevgeny Fyodorov, warn that these groups pose a threat to Russia's multinational identity. However, the state's focus on defeating enemies within Ukraine has seemingly weakened efforts to address this internal danger.
This situation underscores a dangerous paradox: While Russia claims to rid Ukraine of Nazis, it tolerates and even celebrates far-right extremism at home. This hypocrisy not only undermines its stated goals but also raises alarms about the broader implications for global security and stability. The rise of neo-Nazi groups supported by a nuclear power like Russia is a worrying sign for anyone concerned with the future of international relations and human rights.
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Originally published on Moscow Times on 2/24/2026