Operations and Weapons Profile of Russia's Controversial Rusich Reconnaissance, Sabotage, and Assault Group

Since the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s comments about wanting to “demilitarise and denazify” the country have been subject to extreme scrutiny in the West. These remarks were made in reference to ultranationalists in the Ukrainian government and armed forces such as Azov Regiment, Freikorps, and Right Sector. However, some have pointed out that the Russian side also has hardline militant right-wing elements, with the most prominent example being the controversial Rusich reconnaissance, sabotage, and assault group.

Rusich uses the black Kolovrat as its logo - a popular symbol among extremist movements in Slavic countries, most notably Russia and Ukraine - as well as the Valknut. Rusich has gained some level of prominence and has grown an online following over the years as its fighters participated in early hostilities in the Donbas in 2014/2015 and have additionally operated in Syria. Moreover, their profile has especially risen since the invasion began.