The teens, tweens and adults of Gen Z are turning to TikTok and Instagram to hash over the tensions between Russia and Ukraine, some appealing to a leader they call “Vladdy Daddy” to refrain from starting a war.

Axar.az reports that TikTok videos have also become a source for researchers tracking Russia's build-up of more than 100,000 troops near its border with Ukraine, though Moscow denies Western accusations that it is planning to invade its neighbour.

Social media users left thousands of comments on Instagram posts from unofficial Russian President Vladimir Putin accounts in recent weeks. A Meta Platforms spokesperson said they are not aware that Putin has an official presence on Facebook and Instagram.

The nickname “Vladdy Daddy”, which can also have sexual connotations, became popular on the internet about 2016 according to meme database Know Your Meme