The symbol has also reportedly been painted on the doors of prominent Russians such as film critic Anton Dolin as well as Pussy Riot member Rita Flores in an apparent attempt at intimidation. Whether ...

On the other side, the most notable symbol has been the simple Z. There have been many theories about why this letter has become a pro-war symbol, and what its origins might be.

Russian Ivan Kuliak wore the letter Z on his chest during the Artistic Gymnastics World Cup in Doha. The Z is reportedly a symbol of support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Lost In Translation One puzzling aspect of the Z-symbol mystery is the lack of a readily identifiable translation. For one thing, the Latin letter "Z" doesn't resemble its counterpart in Russian ...

And even the letter Q has become loaded, thanks to fans of Q-Anon’s endless conspiracy theories. Corporate symbols get redefined, too, for better or for worse.

But the origins of the symbol remain a mystery. Prior to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the letter "Z" was seen painted on tanks as well as other military vehicles massing near the border.