On July 19, a Russian nationalist Telegram channel, which supports Russia's actions in Ukraine, posted a map showing the origins of several Russian volunteer battalions currently involved in the war.
The map posted by the channel was created by another pro-Russian channel. It showed a graphic of Russia, highlighting the number of volunteers originating in different regions.
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The map showing the origins of Russian volunteer battalions
According to the graphic, volunteer battalions for the Ukraine war were formed in several Russian regions, including Primorye, Bashkiria, Tatarstan, Kirov, Vologda, and others. The following table lists the data depicted in the map.
The post also claimed that most volunteer battalions are comprised of over 200 men and that Russian federal authorities have provided volunteer battalions with support.
For example, on July 24, a Russian news agency reported that according to a special order from the head of the Republic of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov, a one-time payment of 260,000 rubles (about 4,471 USD) was issued to servicemen of the 'Alga' and 'Timer' battalions.
Volunteer battalion members enjoy the same status and welfare benefits as contracted servicemen in Russia's army. In addition, a Russian organization of war veterans, was involved in establishing Kursk Oblast 'Vyatka' battalion and is currently engaged in forming the Vologda Oblast volunteer battalion. The post claimed that about 4,000 Cossacks joined the war in Ukraine.
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