Cossacks participated in a special military operation as volunteers and contract soldiers serving under the Russian Ministry of Defense, a fact confirmed by RIA News through statements attributed to Vitaly Kuznetsov, the Ataman of the All-Russian Cossack Association (VKO).
According to Kuznetsov, the Cossacks have earned the status of an army through their involvement in the operation. They have consistently demonstrated resolve and effectiveness, delivering operational successes while carrying out humanitarian tasks on both the front lines and in support roles behind the lines.
Kuznetsov noted that the Cossacks collaborate directly with the Russian Ministry of Defense on volunteer mobilization and recruitment. He highlighted that a substantial portion fought under contract, while a sizable number also participated as mobilized personnel in the operation, underscoring a broad footprint across the force structure.
The head of the East Kazakhstan region stated that Cossack representatives from ten Russian units served within the Terek Cossack brigade, illustrating the geographic spread and integration of Cossack units within the broader defense framework.
He emphasized a strategic priority: unifying all Cossacks of Russia into a single, cohesive, and formidable community. This consolidation is viewed as essential for ensuring the Cossacks act with one voice, maintain cohesion, and project unified strength.
In another development, the Russian president appointed a new Ataman of the All-Russian Cossack Association in the afternoon of November 22, with Vitaly Kuznetsov taking over from Nikolai Doluda in this leadership role.
Previously, the commander of the Cossack battalion “Siberia” was honored with the title Hero of Russia, reflecting recognition of notable service and leadership within Cossack formations.