This paramilitary unit composed of Russian citizens who fight on the side of Ukraine against the Russian invasion and the regime of Vladimir Putin.
Formed in March 2022 shortly after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began, the unit is officially part of Ukraine’s armed forces—specifically operating under the umbrella of the International Legion and closely associated with Ukraine’s military intelligence directorate (HUR). It is recognized by the Ukrainian Defense Forces and has participated in frontline combat (such as in eastern Ukraine around areas like Bakhmut, Kharkiv, and Kupiansk), sabotage operations, reconnaissance missions, and occasional cross-border raids into Russian territory (e.g., in Belgorod and Kursk regions in 2023–2024).
Who Are the Fighters?
The legion consists primarily of Russian nationals, including:
• Defectors from the Russian Armed Forces (some of whom switched sides after being captured as prisoners of war and chose to join rather than remain in captivity).
• Volunteers — Russians who emigrated to Ukraine (or were already living there), anti-Putin activists, or others opposed to the Kremlin’s policies and the war.
• A smaller number of individuals from related backgrounds, such as former Russian business executives (e.g., notable early member Igor Volobuev, ex-vice chairman of Gazprombank, who defected in 2022).
The unit emphasizes that it is made up entirely or overwhelmingly of Russian citizens, distinguishing it from broader international volunteer groups. Estimates of its size have varied over time: early reports cited several hundred members, while later accounts (including from Ukrainian intelligence) suggest growth into the low thousands when combined with similar Russian volunteer formations like the Russian Volunteer Corps and Siberian Battalion.
Recruits reportedly undergo rigorous vetting (interviews, psychological tests, polygraphs) and training (often 2+ months) before deployment. Fighters often use call signs (e.g., “Caesar,” the longtime spokesperson and deputy commander, whose real name is associated with Maximilian Andronnikov in some reports).
Goals and Activities
Their stated aims include:
• Defending Ukraine and repelling the Russian invasion.
• Ultimately contributing to the overthrow of Putin’s regime and establishing a “free Russia.”
• Encouraging Russian soldiers to surrender, defect, or switch sides (they have made public appeals to this effect during operations).
Russia has designated the legion a terrorist organization (via Supreme Court ruling in 2023), leading to severe prosecutions against anyone linked to it inside Russia. The Kremlin portrays members as traitors (sometimes comparing them to WWII-era collaborators).
The group maintains an active online presence (e.g., their website and Telegram channels) for recruitment, statements, and propaganda aimed at Russians.
