Foreign volunteers and the risk of far-right extremism in the Ukraine conflict

Foreign volunteers, including some with far-right and neo-Nazi sympathies, are traveling to Ukraine to participate in the conflict. While the conflict is not currently dominated by extremists, there is concern that if the conflict drags on and becomes more chaotic, the risk factor of far-right extremism could grow. Access to key decision-makers and insider information is essential for effective recruitment, and random individuals without significant access or expertise are less valuable. The presence of far-right groups in Ukraine has complicated historical roots, and their influence within the country's political system is limited. However, in times of crisis, the Ukrainian state may see a need for these groups, bolstering their standing in society.