Originally published June 5, 2023 6:48 am PDT
Ukraine’s military forces are facing controversy over the presence of Nazi symbols on their uniform patches, intensifying the global conversation about the nation’s historical ties to Nazi imagery.
These images could potentially support Russian President Vladimir Putin’s assertion that Ukraine is a “Nazi state” that therefore needs to be “de-Nazified.”
These symbols are increasingly visible on the uniforms of Ukrainian soldiers, some of whom argue the emblems signify national pride and sovereignty, rather than endorsing Nazism.
According to The New York Times, the controversy has come to light after three photographs were posted, then removed, from the social media accounts of the Ukrainian government and NATO allies.
Each of these images featured Ukrainian soldiers adorned with patches bearing symbols recognized globally for their association with Nazi Germany and contemporary extremist groups.
The inclusion of these images in official postings underscores the relationship Ukraine has with Nazi imagery, a connection deeply rooted in the nation’s history of occupation by Soviet and German forces during World War II.
The controversial symbols include the Totenkopf, or Death’s Head, associated with concentration camp guards, and the Black Sun emblem.
According to Michael Colborne, a researcher from the investigative group Bellingcat, “What worries me, in the Ukrainian context, is that people in Ukraine who are in leadership positions, either they don’t or they’re not willing to acknowledge and understand how these symbols are viewed outside of Ukraine.”
He further warned, “I think Ukrainians need to increasingly realize that these images undermine support for the country.”
While the use of such symbols has not yet undermined global support for Ukraine, it has put Western diplomats, journalists, and advocacy groups in what The Times is characterizing as a tough spot.
Reporting on these Nazi symbols could strengthen Russia’s claims, which mainstream media outlets are resolved not to do.
As such, even Jewish and anti-hate organizations have refrained from vocalizing their usual condemnation of hate symbols, for fear of appearing to support so-called Russian narratives.
A notable source of these Nazi-style patches is the Da Vinci Wolves, a volunteer unit originating from one of Ukraine’s paramilitary wings.
This group, along with other notable forces like the Azov regiment, has been incorporated into the Ukrainian military and played a crucial role in defending the country from Russian invasion.
The connection of these units to Nazi symbols adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
For instance, the insignia of the Waffen-SS Galizien, a Nazi military unit some Ukrainians joined, has been cleared by Ukraine’s highest court for use, despite being associated with war crimes during World War II.
As the country’s fight against Russian occupation continues, many Ukrainians apparently perceive it as an extension of their struggle for independence during and immediately post World War II.
Symbols associated with the Ukrainian Insurgent Army and the Galizien patch have been used as emblems of resistance and national pride.
Despite these controversies, Ukrainian forces continue to garner widespread support.
For instance, the Azov regiment was hailed after enduring the siege of Mariupol, while the fallen commander of the Da Vinci Wolves was granted a hero’s funeral, attended by Ukrainian President Zelensky.
