Nikolay Krasnov (soldier)

Nikolay Nikolayevich Krasnov (1867-1947) was a prominent Don Cossack ataman, a general in the Imperial Russian Army, and a prominent figure in the White movement during the Russian Civil War. Later, he collaborated with Nazi Germany during World War II.

Born in St. Petersburg, Krasnov began his military career in the Cossack cavalry. He distinguished himself in various campaigns and served as an officer in the Russo-Japanese War. By the outbreak of World War I, he had risen to the rank of Major General.

Following the February Revolution in 1917, Krasnov attempted to organize resistance against the Bolsheviks. He briefly led a Cossack rebellion against Petrograd but was ultimately defeated. He then joined the White movement in the Don region. He initially aligned himself with General Anton Denikin but later disagreed with Denikin's leadership and policies, particularly regarding the autonomy of the Don Cossacks.

During the Russian Civil War, Krasnov sought support from foreign powers, including Germany. After the defeat of the White forces in Southern Russia, he emigrated to Germany.

During World War II, Krasnov actively collaborated with Nazi Germany. He participated in the formation of Cossack units within the Wehrmacht and Waffen-SS, fighting against the Soviet Union. He became a leading figure in the Main Directorate of the Cossack Troops of the Ostministerium.

After the war, Krasnov was captured by British forces and handed over to the Soviet authorities along with other Cossack collaborators in Operation Keelhaul. He was tried for treason and collaboration with the enemy and subsequently executed by hanging in Moscow in 1947. His legacy remains controversial due to his collaboration with the Nazis.