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Russian pro-war ‘Z’ symbol: what to know
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Because the Russian invasion of Ukraine dragged into its second week, images have emerged of Russian tanks and uniforms emblazoned with numerous symbols, together with “Z” and “V,” resulting in hypothesis about their exact which means and origins.
The matter made headlines Sunday after Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak was seen sporting a “Z” on his chest whereas competing at Equipment World Cup in Doha, Qatar alongside Ukrainians.
The signal Z and worlds studying “we do not depart ours” is seen over Nevsky Prospect in St. Petersburg, Russia, Saturday, March 5, 2022.
(AP Photograph)
Commentators agree that “Z” broadly signifies help for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. However its precise meanings, together with its counterpart “V,” may run a lot deeper.
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“Z” may have twin meanings, “Zapad” (the west) or “Z” for Ukrainian President Volodomyr “Zelensky,” whereas “V” may probably stand for “Vostok” (the east).
“The Russians love symbolism,” former intelligence officer Rebekah Koffler informed Fox Information. “It’s often not only one factor.”
One other potential use of those symbols may very well be to tell apart Russian navy tools from Ukrainian navy tools.
Russian troopers sporting “V” and “Z” symbols.
( Instagram/@mil_ru)
Regardless of both letter not showing within the Cyrillic alphabet, each the “V” and “Z” symbols are displayed on the Russian navy’s official Instagram web page.
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In a single publish, a Russian soldier is featured with a “Z” superimposed over the picture.
“They shield you and the world. Let’s help our guys,” the caption reads.
Koffler informed Fox Information the Russians could also be utilizing Latin symbols as a sign that the conflict in Ukraine is a part of a grander battle between the Atlanticism of the west and the Eurasianism of the east.
“Russia perceives itself as neither European nor Asian, however Eurasian,” Koffler mentioned. “That is how they view it. It’s not about Ukraine, it’s east in opposition to west. They wish to management Eurasia they usually don’t need the U.S. or China to be in that place of dominant energy.”