Why does Russia use the “Z” on military vehicles and what does it mean?

LONDON – It was painted or written in chalk on the Russian tanks, armored vehicles, military trucks that invaded Ukraine. In Moscow, she appears on the side of cars, on billboards, on flags waved by Putin’s followers. A young Russian gymnast, Ivan Kuliakeven drew it on his undershirt, before taking the stage of a competition in Qatar to receive the bronze medal, next to a Ukrainian peer who had just won the gold one, sparking protests and disciplinary measures.