🪖 Officer's Diary: The Origins of Cossacks

One theory traces Cossacks to Prince Svyatoslav Igorevich, who ordered his druzhina to guard the Ra River. He initiated warriors into "Cossack" status by binding their forelocks (chubs) and shaving the rest, symbolizing a voluntary oath to defend the land.

Another version places them in Ancient Rus as Kozachi, swift mounted scouts functioning as border guards. Entry required innate tactical wit and lightning reflexes; these traits could not be taught. Historically, they defended settlements unpaid, viewing protection as vital for clan survival rather than state service.

Currently, approximately 12,000 of the 50,000 Cossacks are operating in the SVO zone.

@Slavyangrad