Russian tanks and military vehicles in Ukraine have a “Z” marking painted on their sides which have left people wondering what the symbol actually meant for.

"Z" is a letter that Russian Military are putting on their vehicles departing to Ukraine. Some interpret "Z" as "Za pobedy" (for victory). Others – as "Zapad" (West). Anyway, this symbol invented just a few days ago became a symbol of new Russian ideology and national identity pic.twitter.com/iWuBPhhdEb

— Kamil Galeev (@kamilkazani) March 6, 2022

According to a report in The Sun, the symbols were important to distinguish them from Ukrainian tanks and army vehicles in order to avoid the risk of being hit by “friendly fire”

“It’s vital that any attacking force can be distinguished, particularly from the air where Russian forces will have complete control. The Ukrainians have very similar tanks and vehicles and will want to reduce the risk of friendly fire," the source said.

However, according to Galina Starovoitova Fellow Kamil Galeev, "Z" is a letter that Russian Military are putting on their vehicles departing to Ukraine. "Some interpret "Z" as "Za pobedy" (for victory). Others – as "Zapad" (West),” the scholar said on Twitter.

“This symbol invented just a few days ago became a symbol of new Russian ideology and national identity,” he added.

Social media is full of images of the thick white symbol and many pro-Russian demonstrators have been found wearing them on T-shirts as well.

The symbol has found many supporters. Many Russian civilians and business owners are putting “Z” on their cars without being forced.

Russian gymnast Ivan Kuliak, who sported the Z insignia on his shirt on a podium while receiving his medal next to Ukrainian rival, had been criticised on social media.

Kuliak’s shirt had the letter Z prominently up front as he stood next to Ukraine’s Illia Kovtun, the gold medallist at a Gymnastics World Cup event in Doha.

Also read: Indian students in Sumy stuck amid Russia and Ukraine’s blame game