The "Z" has been appropriated by pro–Vladimir Putin, pro-war civilians as a symbol of support for Russia's invasion.[14][15] Pro-Kremlin Telegram channels have incorporated the letter "Z" in their names since the beginning of the invasion.[16] Russian state-controlled broadcaster RT has sold merchandise featuring the symbol as a show of support for Russian forces, often with a texture taken from the Ribbon of Saint George, while local authorities in several parts of Russia have organized flash mobs in support of the invasion prominently featuring the symbol.[17]