Several theories have circulated as to what the "Z" symbol actually means. It first caught attention on social media after Russian tanks with "Zs" on the side were spotted en route to Ukraine.

A new tactical symbol appearing on Russian tanks and armored vehicles involved ... The most prominent marking has been the 'Z ...

TASS/. Ukrainian troops set up ambushes disguising themselves as Russian forces by drawing the Z symbol on their vehicles and equipment, a member of the Donetsk People's Republic’s militia ...