Telegram channels dedicated to broadcasting graphic footage from the war in Ukraine, including apparent executions and mutilated bodies, have evolved into a highly profitable industry operated largely by civilians far from the front lines, according to an investigation.
Researchers analyzed more than 50 channels focused on war snuff content and found that administrators attract tens of thousands of followers by monetizing extreme battlefield violence. Revenue is generated through advertising, cross-promotion, direct donations, and paid subscriptions for uncensored material.
One prominent channel amassed nearly 40,000 subscribers and was founded by a 36-year-old refractory worker at an aluminum plant in Volgograd. Based on posting volume and audience reach, investigators estimated the operation could generate roughly 200,000 rubles per month in advertising revenue, a significant income in provincial Russia. The founder reportedly sold the channel in early 2026, citing burnout from managing the relentless stream of gore.
The investigation revealed a disturbing demographic trend: a significant number of channel administrators are minors. One major snuff channel with nearly 110,000 subscribers explicitly listed teenagers as its advertising contacts. Investigators identified one individual who was handling ad sales for the channel in 2023 at the age of 16. Another channel founder launched his operation at approximately age 15.
Investigators located at least four administrators currently no older than 15. One 14-year-old schoolboy from Abakan heavily utilized Russian military imagery on his accounts and had reportedly applied to join a Kremlin-backed patriotic youth movement.
Monetization tactics extend beyond traditional advertising. Some channels openly solicit funds to pay for exclusive violent content. In one instance, an administrator requested donations to purchase footage of a wounded Ukrainian soldier being executed, then publicly thanked a subscriber who financed the video’s acquisition.
While the primary purpose of these channels is profit through gore trafficking, human rights advocates note they are inadvertently creating an extensive archive that may serve as critical documentary evidence in future war crimes prosecutions.