Ukraine Elections: Pro-Kiev battalion continues face off against Moscow in east
Updated 20:20, 22-Apr-2019
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Turning now to Ukraine, as the country braces for an election debate in just a few hours. One crucial topic on the agenda is the country's conflict with Russia in east Ukraine -- an issue which features on both candidates' political platform. On the front lines of that fight are Ukraine's Azov Battalion, a controversial far-right group that draws members from all over the world. CGTN's Stephanie Freid joined an Azov Battalion militia in east Ukraine. 
In Ukraine's fight against Russia, the Azov Battalion is somewhat of a "rogue" element, incorporated into the country's National Guard, but operating mostly independently. The fighters are well funded, well trained and they're reportedly – through indirect means - getting high caliber weaponry from the United States.  Their political wing is represented in Ukraine's government. Azov's leader is a member of parliament. Last year it was revealed that several American white supremacists indicted by the FBI trained in Ukraine with the battalion.
Azov was formed in 2014 as fighting against Russia for territorial integrity erupted in the east. Throughout the years they have helped achieve territorial victories in the fight against Russia.
But they are known for violent protests and brutality towards minority groups. In recent weeks Facebook administrators took down Azov accounts citing hate speech. Today the group's combined branches number around ten thousand volunteers. In February Azov and Ukraine's army joined forces to coordinate combat zone maneuvers. Stephanie Freid, CGTN, Novo Luhansk, Ukraine.