Russia designates Ukraine’s Azov Regiment a ‘terrorist’ group

Russia’s top court has designated the Azov Regiment, a former volunteer battalion with far-right roots that was officially integrated into Ukraine’s army, a “terrorist” organisation.

The ruling by the Supreme Court on Tuesday allows for lengthy prison terms for the members of Azov, who are accused of harbouring neo-Nazi and white supremacist ideology.

According to Russia’s criminal code, members of “terrorist” groups can face up to 10 years in jail, while their leaders and organisers can be jailed for up to 20 years.