The vast majority of the world has come together to support Ukraine.
From financial sanctions imposed by the UK and the US, to monetary support from normally neutral countries such as Switzerland and Hungary, it's safe to say that the country is being backed by people from all walks of life.
And for one group of supporters, that is more than true.
The Azov Unit, also known as the “men in black”, are one of the most controversial groups assisting the Ukrainians in their fight against the Russian invasion.
Formed in 2014, they were created by a group of ultra-nationalists called the Patriots of Ukraine, which is also known as the neo-Nazi Social Action Assembly group.
Recent video footage of the group shows them celebrating after seemingly taking out a Russian unit near Mariupol.
They can be seen sitting on Russian tanks with the now distinct “Z” marking, while one fighter models a rocket launched on his soldier.
They have also been pictured training Ukrainian civilians on how to fight in armed combat, using guns and other weapons.
A few months prior to the full outbreak of war, the group was honoured into the National Guard of Ukraine, and made an official battalion.
They were given the role of gendarmerie, which basically means they can uphold the law among the civilian population.
Their funding is believed to come from Ilhor Kolomoyskyi, who is actually the co-owner of bank Privat Bank, and owner of football club FC Dnipro.
The groups ideals have caused controversy.
Members of the group have been pictured wearing SS symbols, Nazi uniforms and openly supporting neo-Nazi views.
In 2014, they were pictured on German television wearing helmets with swastikas on, and in 2015 and 2018, Canada and the US respectively both blocked any of their forces giving training to the Azov.
The group allegedly carried out violent riots or “pogroms” against members of Ukraine's Roma and LGBTQ communities, and in 2016, the UN accused the group of violating international humanitarian law.
Recent video footage appeared to show the group dipping bullets into pig fat.
The bullets were going to be used Muslim Chechen fighters.
In the video, an Azov members were heard saying: “Dear Muslim brothers – in our country, you will not go to heaven.
“You will not be allowed into heaven.”
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