The Siberian Battalion (also known as the Sibir Battalion) is a volunteer formation of Russian citizens fighting on the side of Ukraine against the Russian Federation. Formed by the Civic Council and established in 2023, the unit was created to channel anti-Kremlin sentiment among Russian dissidents into an organised combat role. The battalion thus embodies both a military purpose on the battlefield and a symbolic role in demonstrating Russian resistance to Putin’s war on Ukraine. It has fought in areas such as Kharkiv, Donetsk, Kherson, and Sumy, taking part in both frontline engagements and supporting operations. The group has reported multiple successes, including a March 2024 operation in Russia’s Belgorod Oblast where it claimed to have seized the administration building in Gorkovsky settlement. [source, source]

1 Motto, Symbols, Patches 

1.1 Motto 

There are no known mottos publicly associated with the Siberian Battalion. However, comments made by its members encapsulate much of the group’s broader purpose and identity:

“To transform the Empire of Evil into a space of free people and nations…” [source]

“We are preparing to bring freedom and justice to our land.” [source]

“Russia spares no one, especially its own people.” [source]

1.2 Symbols

The current insignia features the word “SIBERIA” above a bear’s head that merges into a skull. This design projects ferocity and intimidation, reflecting the battalion’s combat role. Its symbolism carries further weight as, according to ABN, it was created by a fellow member known as “Tikhiy,” who was later killed near Avdiivka. [source]

An earlier version displayed a bear paw set against camouflage within a shield outline, marked with the unit’s name. 

1.3 Patches 

Patches have been observed frequently on the left sleeve, consistent with the battalion’s current logo. In some cases, insignia has been worn in the center of the chest plate, though this appears less common. The patch is often paired with a Ukrainian flag tab, reinforcing its integration into the Ukrainian Armed Forces. [source, source] 

2 Organisation

2.1 Place within the Ukrainian government

The Siberian Battalion is a military formation subordinated to Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) and operates under the Tymur Special Unit. It is formally recognised within the International Legion, a state-sanctioned structure that enables foreign volunteers to serve under Ukrainian command. Unlike other Russian volunteer formations, such as the Freedom of Russia Legion or the Russian Volunteer Corps, the Siberian Battalion is integrated into the regular Armed Forces of Ukraine rather than the Territorial Defense Forces. This arrangement places it on the same command and supply footing as standard brigades and makes it eligible for more advanced equipment. The decision to incorporate the unit in this way likely reflects Kyiv’s assessment that the battalion is sufficiently disciplined, politically reliable, and militarily useful to justify a status that distinguishes it from other foreign volunteer groups. [source, source, source]

Organisational details about the Siberian Battalion remain limited, with little publicly available information on its internal structure or sub-units. Its official Telegram channel, however, has referenced a UAV department, consistent with the battalion’s frequent emphasis on technology and innovation. [source]

2.2 Financing 

Considering the Siberian Battalion’s integration into the regular Armed Forces of Ukraine, it is likely that its financing is drawn primarily from the Ukrainian state, with salaries, equipment, and logistics covered through the standard defence budget. 

At the same time, the battalion benefits from supplementary funding streams. In particular, the Civic Council provides much of the unit’s material support. Additionally, the Siberian Battalion official website hosts a donations section with options including PayPal and cryptocurrency wallets. In late 2023, the Defence Fund of Ukraine launched a dedicated fundraising campaign on its behalf, while diaspora and opposition networks such as Ames and the NAFO community have been linked to donations of equipment and financial support. Supposedly, grassroots fundraising raised approximately $35,000 during the unit’s initial formation and training, however this number remains unverified. [source, source, source, source, source, source]

2.3 Key Figures 

Vlaidslav Ammosov

Vladislav Ammosov announced the Siberian Battalion in April 2023 and continues to serve as its commander. Alongside his military role, he helped found Kogul Sakhalar Tumsuulere (the Assembly of Free Sakha), an indigenous anti-war movement that campaigns for the rights of the Sakha people. [source, source]

Ammosov previously served as a Russian GRU special forces officer and fought in both the First and Second Chechen Wars. In Ammosov’s words, the wars “sobered me up”. Disillusioned by Russia’s annexation of Crimea and the war in Donbas, he left the Russian military and later aligned himself with Ukraine. [source, source]

Ildar Dadin, Callsign “Ghandi”

No available information confirms the exact rank of Dadin; however, he clearly held a notable position within the battalion. Dadin appeared frequently in public representations, likely due to his prominence as a Russian dissident and the symbolic value his participation carried for Ukrainian resistance. [source]

Dadin became the first individual convicted under Article 212.1 of the Criminal Code, which criminalised unauthorised protests. His imprisonment drew international attention not only for the circumstances of his arrest but also for the treatment he endured while incarcerated, leading several human rights organisations to recognise him as a political prisoner. While imprisoned, he wrote a letter to his wife, Anastasia Zotova, describing the torture he suffered in a Russian prison as punishment for staging small, peaceful protests. [source, source]

These experiences shaped his trajectory and eventual decision to join the Siberian Battalion. The battalion’s official Telegram channel referred to his combat activities, including an operation near Horlivka where he reportedly refused to leave behind a wounded comrade. Dadin died in combat on 5 October 2024 in Kharkiv. [source, source, source, source]

Alexei Makarov, Callsign “Shved”

Alexei Makarov is a Russian anarchist and anti-Kremlin activist who joined the Siberian Battalion. Makarov was formerly associated with the National Bolshevik political party, which the Kremlin soon declared an extremist organisation. As a result, Makarov faced extremism charges and fled to Ukraine in 2009. Furthermore, he reportedly lived in Sweden for eleven years before returning to fight in Ukraine (hence the translation of his callsign, “swede”). He served as a machine gunner in the battalion’s assault element. However, reports indicate he no longer fights in the unit due to health issues. [source, source]

2.4 Recruitment 

2.4.1 Methods 

The Civic Council primarily coordinated recruitment for the Siberian Battalion, and the battalion later took over the process directly. While alternative pathways may exist, recruitment appears to be conducted primarily online, especially through diaspora-facing outreach. The battalion uses its official Telegram channel and website to circulate a Google Form, which serves as the main entry point for prospective volunteers. In addition, interviews with members and media appearances function as secondary recruitment tools, amplifying the link to the form and encouraging self-selecting volunteers to initiate contact. [source, source, source, source] 

2.4.2 Security within Recruitment

Given the unit’s composition of Russian citizens and its overt anti-Kremlin purpose, recruitment sits in a particularly high-risk environment. The battalion faces not only the infiltration threat but also applicants face the acute danger that Moscow could discover their identities or applications, presenting a serious danger to them. [source, source]

To avoid infiltration, the group requires applicants to use ProtonMail, a secure email service, and rejects any applications sent through other channels. Additionally, Ukrainian authorities vet prospective volunteers through intensive background checks, interviews, and screening before accepting them into the battalion. [source, source]

Security risks are especially high for applicants. Russian citizens who attempt to join the battalion face significant personal danger if exposed. Detected attempts to compromise the process — including the creation of fake channels posing as the Siberian Battalion to identify or mislead potential recruits—were likely orchestrated by Russian authorities. For this reason, the battalion repeatedly stresses that its team handles recruitment “exclusively — without intermediaries, volunteers, or helpers” to maintain control and reduce the risk of infiltration. Furthermore, the battalion strongly encourages Russian volunteers to submit applications only after they have left Russia, reducing the risk of exposure to authorities. [source, source]

2.4.3 Requirements 

The Siberian Battalion’s main website features a dedicated “Vacancies” page outlining available roles and their requirements. The battalion does not recruit Russian prisoners of war or women, although it encourages women to apply for future opportunities. Most combat positions – such as assault trooper, machine gunner, and sniper – set an age range of 18-45, expect physical endurance, and require either prior service or readiness for intensive training. The sniper role emphasises good eyesight and the ability to operate independently. Other specialist roles and their listed requirements include: [source, source]

UAV Operator

• Experience with drones or readiness for rapid training
• Analytical thinking and tech proficiency
• Focus and attention to detail

Medic

• Medical education or emergency care experience
• Readiness to operate in high-risk environments
• Composure and calmness under pressure

Mechanic-Driver

• Basic driving skills (Category C license preferred)
• Interest in military vehicles and technical aptitude
• Readiness for dynamic field conditions
• Basic repair or maintenance skills

2.4.4 Possible Foreign Recruitment 

The unit primarily recruits Russian citizens from Siberia, including ethnic minorities such as Buryats, Yakuts, and Tuvans. There is no available information that indicates non-Russians within the unit. However, as the battalion is part of the International Legion, the battalion is technically open to any foreigner who wants to join the Ukrainian army. [source]

2.4.5 Training

All volunteers in the Siberian Battalion complete a 2-3 month training programme covering core combat skills, including weapons handling, live-fire drills, and small-unit battlefield tactics such as fire-and-manoeuvre and patrols. Training also includes basic combat casualty care, communications, and close-quarters entry practice. Reuters and Kyiv Independent have filmed elements of this process, showing battalion members on ranges and in field exercises. Recruits can then receive additional instruction, such as UAV operator courses and target-reporting procedures. Their official Telegram channel has also noted the involvement of NATO instructors in this process. However, it remains unclear whether the Siberian Battalion’s reference to “gaining experience from NATO instructors” denotes official NATO support or, more plausibly, individual volunteers from NATO countries acting in an unofficial capacity. [source, source, source, source, source]

5 Equipment 

5.1 Weapons 

Publicly available information indicates that the battalion assaulters are often issued AK-74/AK-74M family rifles (some fitted with GP-25 underbarrel grenade launchers). Belt-fed light machine guns, notably FN Minimi/ M249 style weapons, appear repeatedly among images, alongside PKM/PKP’s. Designated marksman and sniper systems, particularly SVD-type DMR’s and other Western precision rifles, have also been observed. Additionally, the Siberian Battalion actively employs UAVs, such as their use of kamikaze drones against a Russian tanks. [source, source, source, source]

5.2 Vehicles

Open-source information provides only limited details on the Siberian Battalion’s vehicle fleet. We have observed the use of Polaris quad-bikes and the Mitsubishi L200 for transport. One source indicates the use of U.S. supplied M1224 MaxxPro MRAPs and Humvee light armoured vehicles, consistent with other Ukrainian formations, however this remains unverified. Their Telegram channel has also showcased a mobile auto-repair workshop for restoring equipment. Beyond these examples, details of their motor pool remain undisclosed. [source, source]

5.3 Optics 

Available images suggest Siberian Battalion fighters use a mix of commercial and military-grade optics. They likely source this equipment through Ukraine’s Western partners or volunteer procurement channels. Imagery from the Siberian Battalion’s official Telegram channel and international press coverage consistently shows fighters equipped with modern rifle optics. Most rifles are fitted with compact red-dot or reflex sights, reflecting the standardisation of basic optical aids across the unit. Some personnel continue to use iron sights, highlighting uneven distribution of gear, but the presence of modern optics indicates integration into broader Ukrainian supply and training practices. [source, source, source]

5.4 Armour and Kit 

Ground imagery of the Siberian Battalion shows fighters equipped with a mix of modern and legacy protective gear. Personnel often wear high-cut ballistic helmets with NVG mounts alongside older Soviet-style steel helmets. Most soldiers use modular plate carriers with magazine pouches and load-bearing rigs, indicating rifle-rated protection is standard, though exact specifications are unclear. Eye protection, tactical gloves, and hearing protection are also present. The uneven distribution of modern gear reflects multiple supply channels, but provides a functional baseline suited to reconnaissance and raid-style operations. [source, source, source, source]

5.5 Other Important Gear 

The uniforms of the Siberian Battalion vary considerably, with most fighters pictured in full protective setups while others appear in lighter kit. Fighters are most frequently seen in Ukrainian Armed Forces-issue MM-14 digital camouflage, sometimes mixed with non-standard items, such as civilian clothing and commercial camouflage patterns. [source, source]

In winter conditions, personnel have used snow camouflage over-suits and improvised white scrim for concealment. Face coverings, particularly balaclavas, are a consistent feature across imagery, serving both to obscure identity and provide environmental protection. [source, source, source]

6 Tactical-Operational Information 

6.1 Operations 

6.1.1 Earlier operations (2023 – early 2024)

The Siberian Battalion reported its first combat in November 2023 on the Horlivka axis. During the winter campaign, fighters took part in the defence of Avdiivka, where—alongside AFU units—they held positions at the Avdiivka Coke Plant and helped secure the “road of life” supply corridor. Independent coverage of the wider battle also noted the battalion’s deployment in Avdiivka. In spring 2024, the battalion began to carry out missions behind enemy lines. These marked its first operations on Russian territory. This coincided with the March 2024 Belgorod-Kursk incursions, when the Siberian Battalion and allied Russian volunteer units claimed cross-border raids; the battalion specifically announced it had seized the administration building in Gorkovsky settlement, Belgorod Oblast. Fighting during this period also extended to settlements such as Grayvoron. [source, source, source, source, source, source]

6.1.2 Later operations (mid 2024 – onwards)

By May 2024, the unit redeployed to the Vovchansk sector, where it fought in heavy battles and several fighters received combat decorations. During the summer, part of the battalion trained in allied countries before taking part in Black Sea operations. Members received awards afterward. In autumn 2024, the unit trained with neighbouring formations to strengthen tactical coordination. In August, Ukraine’s Defence Intelligence reportedly conducted a raid on the Kinburn Spit, with Militarnyi noting that the Siberian Battalion participated alongside other units. By winter 2024-2025, it had returned to combat on key frontlines. [source, source, source]

6.2 Core Purpose 

The core purpose of the Siberian Battalion is to provide a combat formation of Russian citizens fighting under Ukrainian command against the Russian Federation. Many volunteers act on personal politics, including opposition to Putin and Russian imperial policy. Others join out of moral grievances, such as retaliation for repression and atrocities committed by the Russian state. For Kyiv, the battalion channels these motivations into tangible battlefield action. [source]

The unit functions principally as a small-unit infantry formation, conducting reconnaissance, raids, and direct engagements to seize, deny, or hold specific terrain. Beyond kinetic tasks, the battalion also fulfils a political-information role: by fielding Russian volunteers, including prominent dissidents, it signals internal Russian opposition to Moscow and reinforces Ukraine’s narrative of Russian resistance. 

“Ukrainians do not trust Russians, and there are reasons for this. But this war was unleashed by the regime in our name, and we are obliged to end it” – Sokolov, a member of the battalion, told Al Jazeera. [source]

6.3 Tactics 

The tactics used by the Siberian Battalion vary depending on the objective or assignment. These include, but are not limited to:

• Reconnaissance: The battalion conducts reconnaissance as part of the HUR intelligence cycle, using dedicated reporting channels to pass enemy movements, infrastructure vulnerabilities, and geolocated target data. [source]
• Infiltration/Exfiltration: At various points the Siberian Battalion participated in cross-border incursions into Russia alongside the Freedom of Russia Legion, reported by international media. [source, source]
• Close-quarter-combat (CQC): Various footage shows the unit participating in CQC. [source]
• Raids: The unit’s official channel regularly posts about raid-style attacks against Russian positions, highlighting short-duration strikes and rapid withdrawals. [source]
• Captures: Battalion footage has shown captured equipment and Russian personnel. [source]
• Clean up operations: Posts also document after-action “clean-up” tasks, including securing cleared areas, consolidating positions, and recovering materiel.  [source]
• Standoff employments: Using UAVs for target acquisition and employing loitering/kamikaze drones [source]

6.4 Personnel size 

The exact personnel strength of the Siberian Battalion remains unclear. Euronews reported that around 60 fighters served in the battalion during its first year of existence in 2023, suggesting a relatively small initial force. Other sources have listed its size as between 250–500 servicemen, though these figures are not independently verified. Al Jazeera further noted that the battalion was receiving up to 10 applications per day, indicating sustained interest in joining despite the uncertainty over confirmed numbers. [source, source, source]

6 The Future 

The future of the Siberian Battalion will likely depend on its capacity to sustain recruitment and withstand battlefield attrition. While its verified numbers remain limited, steady inflows of applications suggest the potential for gradual expansion.  Looking ahead, its value may lie as much in its symbolic role—demonstrating active Russian resistance to Moscow—as in its battlefield impact, ensuring it continues to receive attention and support. [source]

7 Conclusion 

The Siberian Battalion highlights the layered nature of Ukraine’s defence, where military formations also carry political and symbolic weight. Its creation reflects both the fragmentation of loyalty within Russia and Kyiv’s ability to integrate diverse volunteer groups into its command structures. Furthermore, the battalion’s existence underscores how the war is not only fought across frontlines, but also in the realm of narratives, identity, and legitimacy, making it both a combat unit and a statement of resistance. The unit thus ultimately embodies how the war in Ukraine has become both a fight for territory and a contest over the meaning of Russian identity.