Rinaldo Nazzaro, founder and leader of The Base, an international neo-Nazi terrorist group, is alleged by former members and investigations to be secretly working for the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB). The Base operates globally with cells in the US and elsewhere and has engaged in violent activity, including recruitment and paramilitary training. After several arrests within the group, members reported that Nazzaro disappeared, leading to suspicions he was working covertly for Russia. The organization's substantial involvement in Ukraine is cited as evidence of Kremlin influence. Independent experts and the Guardian's review of digital evidence suggest Nazzaro links his operations to Russian digital infrastructure and possibly coordinates with Kremlin operatives. These findings shed light on the complex hybrid tactics Russia may be employing to use extremist groups abroad to further its geopolitical objectives. Nazzaro has publicly denied any such espionage or ties to Russia.

Rinaldo Nazzaro, founder and leader of The Base, an international neo-Nazi terrorist group, is alleged by former members and investigations to be secretly working for the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB). The Base operates globally with cells in the US and elsewhere and has engaged in violent activity, including recruitment and paramilitary training. After several arrests within the group, members reported that Nazzaro disappeared, leading to suspicions he was working covertly for Russia. The organization's substantial involvement in Ukraine is cited as evidence of Kremlin influence. Independent experts and the Guardian's review of digital evidence suggest Nazzaro links his operations to Russian digital infrastructure and possibly coordinates with Kremlin operatives. These findings shed light on the complex hybrid tactics Russia may be employing to use extremist groups abroad to further its geopolitical objectives. Nazzaro has publicly denied any such espionage or ties to Russia.