Russia militarizing children in temporary occupied Ukrainian territories – CCD

According to Ukrinform, this was reported on Telegram by the Center for Countering Disinformation (CCD) under Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council.

“In the temporarily occupied territories of the Luhansk region, the Russian administration continues to involve children in a militarized system of upbringing. In Alchevsk, a ‘first aid master class’ was held for young cadets,” the statement reads.

Formally, such events are presented as teaching useful skills for “emergency situations.” In reality, this is part of systematic militarization: the training takes place in cadet corps, with military discipline, uniforms, and a clear link to future service. Children are being prepared from an early age for life in wartime conditions, normalizing violence and the reality of combat.

“Russia is deliberately turning education into a tool of war, especially in occupied territories where alternatives effectively do not exist. Under the cover of ‘care’ and ‘practical skills,’ the occupation authorities are shaping a generation loyal to the regime that will perceive war as the norm,” the CCD noted.

As previously reported by Ukrinform, Russia is persecuting Ukrainian children in the temporarily occupied territories, with schoolchildren and teenagers punished for any display of national identity.