Although hailed as heroes in recent times due to their strong resistance against the Russian invasion, Ukraine’s Azov Brigade has long been mired in controversy. The unit has been associated with neo-Nazi ideology and has allegedly committed several human rights abuses.

The Biden administration has lifted its restriction on the Ukrainian battalion following investigations into human rights controversies.

The brigade, whose origins were mired in far-right controversy, hails the move as blow to Russia's propaganda.

The U.S. has removed restrictions on the transfer of American weapons and training to a high-profile Ukrainian military unit with a checkered past, the State Department said on Tuesday. The move will help the Azov Brigade,

The Azov Brigade is among Ukraine’s most effective and popular fighting units. But it has been dogged by its origins as a volunteer battalion that drew fighters from far-right circles and criticism for some of its tactics.