What the Z: How Russia turned a single letter into a pro-invasion symbol

The symbol has appeared in several places since the beginning of the invasion. Initially drawn on Russian military vehicles as early as Feb. 27, it has become a rallying symbol in Russia and has been promoted in several pro-Russia propaganda videos.

It is unclear what the intended meaning of Z is. “Some interpret ‘Z’ as ‘Za pobedy’ (for victory),” argued Kamil Galeev, a fellow at the Wilson Center. “Others — as ‘Zapad’ (West). Anyway, this symbol invented just a few days ago became a symbol of new Russian ideology and national identity.”

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While the direct reference may be unclear, the intended organizing effort appears clear. Daria Kaleniuk, the executive director of the Anti-Corruption Action Center in Ukraine, compared the Z to a Nazi swastika.

“21 century fascism invents its own symbols,” Kaleniuk tweeted. “Stop.”

The symbol has also been seen drawn on Russian civilian vehicles and businesses, with pro-Putin advocates organizing and displaying their support through Zs on their cars.

A Russian cancer charity that runs a hospice for children in Kazan had several children and mothers line up in a Z formation while holding flags representing Russia, Tatarstan, the Luhansk People’s Republic, and the Donetsk People’s Republic before taking a picture with a drone. The two Republics are references to the two regions in Ukraine that Russian President Vladimir Putin declared independent republics prior to his invasion.

“Our patients and entire team took part in it, about 60 people in total,” the hospice owner, Vladimir Vavilov, told the Daily Telegraph.

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The letter has grown in prominence, to the point of it causing controversy at international sporting events. Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak is facing disciplinary repercussions after attaching a “Z” made of tape to his chest while standing next to Ukrainian gold medalist Illia Kovtun at the World Cup Event in Doha, Qatar, on Saturday.

The Russian spy Maria Butina was also seen drawing a “Z” on her jacket, an expression of solidarity for the war.

Not all Russians are supporting the invasion. Thousands of protesters have taken to the streets of cities including Moscow and St. Petersburg to protest the invasion of Ukraine. Thousands have been arrested, according to watchdog groups.