Russian tactics of exploiting Ukrainian youth and children: hidden aims and disastrous consequences
In the ongoing military aggression by the Russian Federation against Ukraine, the use of not only military forces but also targeted youth and adolescent programs aims to destroy Ukrainian identity and strengthen occupation policies.
According to the Center for National Resistance, Russian occupiers recruit young people from temporarily occupied territories under the guise of ‘internships,’ sending them to military-industrial enterprises where they are forced to assist in producing weapons, which are subsequently used on the frontlines against Ukraine.
This not only jeopardizes their future careers through counterfeit diplomas but also involves them directly in the conflict, turning young individuals into accomplices of Russian aggression.
Additionally, the kidnapping of Ukrainian children under the pretext of ‘summer holidays’ raises international concerns due to blatant violations of international humanitarian law, which forbids using occupied populations for military purposes.
The occupiers transport talented children to Moscow and Saint Petersburg for further exploitation in propaganda and military activities, also forcing youth to undergo military training and integrate into the occupation troops.
Reports indicate even teenagers from Kherson region are sent to Russian camps to prepare for combat against Ukraine, representing a gross breach of international laws and human rights.