Routledge Studies in Fascism and the Far Right: Foreign Fighters in Ukraine

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This comprehensive academic study examines the phenomenon of foreign fighters in the Ukraine conflict, addressing a significant yet often overlooked aspect of contemporary warfare. While much attention has been paid to the threats posed by returning jihadists, the presence of right-wing extremists and other non-terrorist groups has received less scrutiny. As many Westerners flocked to join the Caliphate in Syria and Iraq, others chose to engage in the Russo-Ukrainian war, which is closer to home for Europe. The author explores the ideological and social backgrounds of these fighters, their motivations for joining the conflict, their journeys to Ukraine, and their experiences on the battlefield. Drawing extensively from interviews with the fighters themselves, the study investigates the reasons behind their willingness to risk their lives for a foreign cause and the implications of their return for security services in their home countries. In light of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and the rising concern over far-right violence globally, the book assesses whether these returnees pose a new security threat to the West. This work will appeal to researchers focused on small wars, terrorism, peace and conflict studies, and right-wing extremism.