A number of commentators view RNU as the political wing of Óglaigh na hÉireann (ONH),[5] a militant dissident republican paramilitary group.

[8] This group was formed by ex-republican prisoners and combatants who opposed the decision by Sinn Fein to support policing structures in Northern Ireland such as the PSNI.

The party was subsequently involved in campaigns including opposition to plans to introduce water meters and anti-political policing and support for republican prisoners and their families.

[11] In 2017 ONH committed to a ceasefire and the RNU supported it, declaring that it was time for Irish republicanism to adapt to the politics of the 21st century and not be ideologically bound to 20th-century thinking.

[12][13] In June 2024, following a takeover of Óglaigh na hÉireann by a hardliner faction, the new leadership severed all ties to the party citing dissatisfaction with its acceptance of peace process funding.