Why were Vikings called rus?

The term "Rus" is believed to have originated from the name of a group of Norsemen, specifically the Vikings, who established trade routes and settlements in Eastern Europe, particularly in what is now Russia and Ukraine. The Word may derive from the Old Norse term "rods," meaning "to row," reflecting their seafaring lifestyle. The Rus played a significant role in the formation of early Russian states and are often credited with influencing the cultural and political landscape of the region. Over time, the name became associated with the people and lands of Russia.