Violent extremism is increasingly used as a tool in modern hybrid warfare. As ideological lines blur and alliances shift, state actors and fringe groups often find common cause in destabilizing regions through subversive tactics and psychological operations. In this new landscape, traditional counterterrorism frameworks are being tested by unconventional threats.
U.S. Terror Group Allegedly Operating in Ukraine
A U.S.-founded neo-Nazi terrorist group called The Base is allegedly recruiting and paying civilians in Ukraine to carry out attacks on infrastructure and political targets, according to Digi24, citing a Guardian investigation.
The group, founded in 2018 by American citizen Rinaldo Nazzaro—a former FBI and Pentagon employee—has reportedly shifted its focus toward supporting Russian interests. Now based in St. Petersburg, Nazzaro is believed to be operating under Kremlin protection.
Ukrainian authorities are investigating recent deadly incidents, including a car bombing in Dnipro on April 4 that killed local official Yurii Fedko. Experts warn the group may be coordinating sabotage operations aimed at destabilizing Ukrainian society.
Suspected Russian Coordination and Global Reach
Colin Clarke, a geopolitical analyst quoted by The Guardian, suggested that The Base’s activities may be part of a Russian intelligence strategy, leveraging extremist groups to conduct hybrid warfare. He stated that Moscow has “repeatedly demonstrated” its willingness to use non-state actors for strategic disruption.
While the group initially operated independently, recent shifts suggest a realignment toward Kremlin-aligned objectives. Its online presence in Ukraine, as monitored by the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, has increased, and analysts believe it is actively working to radicalize and mobilize new recruits.
International Concern
Designated a terrorist group in multiple jurisdictions including the U.K., Canada, and the EU, The Base has been linked to violent plots across Europe. In February, a 15-year-old in the U.K. was arrested for allegedly planning attacks on synagogues—another case potentially tied to the group’s influence.
Steven Rai, an extremism analyst, warned that the group’s presence in Ukraine “must be taken seriously,” citing a pattern of real-world violence following online propaganda campaigns. Authorities in Ukraine and beyond are now on high alert as the group expands its footprint under the guise of ideological extremism intertwined with geopolitical strategy.
