US Neo-Nazi Group Leader Threatens Retaliation After Arrests in Spain and Russia
A global neo-Nazi terrorist group, led by Rinaldo Nazzaro, an American citizen living in Russia, has signaled its intention to take revenge after the arrest of three suspected members in Spain. The group, known as Base, was proscribed globally due to its extremist ideology.
The arrests have heightened concerns that the group's influence extends far beyond its US origins and is spreading across Europe. In a text message sent to The Guardian, Nazzaro described the arrests as an example of "political persecution" by world governments, which he claims are justifying his group's resistance through any means necessary.
Experts have noted the alarming level of organization among the Spanish cell, which included its own Telegram channel where members called for others to join and shared propaganda materials. The group has been linked to Kremlin spy agencies and is suspected of aiding sabotage efforts in Europe.
In recent months, Base has gained notoriety for claiming responsibility for a Ukrainian officer's assassination and other terrorist acts. A Luxembourg court recently imprisoned a Swedish member of the group for plotting a mass casualty event at a Eurovision singing competition.
The arrest of Nazzaro's Spanish cell has raised concerns about potential ties to Russian sabotage operations in Europe. The US-based leader himself is believed to be living in Russia with his family, where he has denied any associations with Russian intelligence despite facing allegations of being a Kremlin asset.
Analysts warn that the group's ideology and online presence pose a significant threat, particularly in the United States, where Base members have been linked to paramilitary-style training and shooting exercises. The FBI has pulled resources from pursuing cases against right-wing extremists, citing concerns about investigations targeting political enemies and anti-fascist activists.
A global neo-Nazi terrorist group, led by Rinaldo Nazzaro, an American citizen living in Russia, has signaled its intention to take revenge after the arrest of three suspected members in Spain. The group, known as Base, was proscribed globally due to its extremist ideology.
The arrests have heightened concerns that the group's influence extends far beyond its US origins and is spreading across Europe. In a text message sent to The Guardian, Nazzaro described the arrests as an example of "political persecution" by world governments, which he claims are justifying his group's resistance through any means necessary.
Experts have noted the alarming level of organization among the Spanish cell, which included its own Telegram channel where members called for others to join and shared propaganda materials. The group has been linked to Kremlin spy agencies and is suspected of aiding sabotage efforts in Europe.
In recent months, Base has gained notoriety for claiming responsibility for a Ukrainian officer's assassination and other terrorist acts. A Luxembourg court recently imprisoned a Swedish member of the group for plotting a mass casualty event at a Eurovision singing competition.
The arrest of Nazzaro's Spanish cell has raised concerns about potential ties to Russian sabotage operations in Europe. The US-based leader himself is believed to be living in Russia with his family, where he has denied any associations with Russian intelligence despite facing allegations of being a Kremlin asset.
Analysts warn that the group's ideology and online presence pose a significant threat, particularly in the United States, where Base members have been linked to paramilitary-style training and shooting exercises. The FBI has pulled resources from pursuing cases against right-wing extremists, citing concerns about investigations targeting political enemies and anti-fascist activists.