THE KADYROVITES .

 Russian channels have been broadcasting footage leveraging the presence of Chechen soldiers in Ukraine. According to reports, the flow of these photos is being utilized as a psychological warfare against Ukrainians. Experts believe Moscow's weaponisation of Chechen fighters, based on preconceptions about Chechens, is part of a propaganda campaign attempt to force Kyiv's surrender—efforts that have so far backfired dramatically.

Ramzán Kadrov, the Chechen Prime Minister, confirms that more than 10,000 Chechen soldiers are actively participating in Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

According to reports, a network of pro-Kremlin Telegram groups has stated that somewhere between 10,000 and 70,000 Chechen fighters—which Kadyrov has dubbed as "volunteers"— are preparing to depart for Ukraine to bolster Moscow's main forces.

THE CHECHENS

The Chechens are one of numerous ethnic groups that may be traced back thousands of years to the North Caucasus' highlands. While their presence dates back centuries, their yearning for independence and autonomy has defined much of their recent history.

The numerous ethnic groups, the majority of whom were Muslims, declared independence from Russia in 1917 and were recognised as the United Mountain Dwellers of the North Caucasus by several global powers. Later, the Soviet Union invaded, leading to the formation of the Checheno-Ingush Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic. People, however, battled against Soviet control. As a result, Joseph Stalin declared that all Chechens must leave the region and be transported to Siberia for "rehabilitation." 

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