Russia Plans to Mobilize Ukrainian Children from Occupied Territories into Its Army

Russia is reported gathering information on Ukrainian children born in 2006 in areas temporarily occupied by Russian forces, with plans to potentially mobilize them into their military by 2025. This development, revealed by the Center for National Resistance, indicates ongoing preparations by Russian occupiers for mobilizing Ukrainians against their own state.

In particular, on occupied territories like parts of Kherson region, fake military registration offices (“voenkomats”) have reportedly been established to implement mobilization plans. These offices are said to be operating based on data obtained from residents during food distribution and pseudo-elections.

The Center for National Resistance has condemned this action, calling it a blatant violation of international law and a sign of Moscow’s intent to harm Ukrainians. According to reports, representatives of these fake voenkomats have started visiting schools, distributing propaganda about serving in the Russian army. They allegedly promote the supposed benefits of military service while glorifying violence against Ukrainian men and destruction of Ukrainian villages.

Witnesses have reported that young boys are often taken to health resorts or sanatoriums under the guise of recreational activities, only to be sent to military service upon turning 18. Russian authorities are said to be conducting medical examinations of 15-16-year-old boys and actively promoting enlistment in the Russian army. Human rights organizations have accused them of subjecting young people to various forms of abuse, both psychological and physical.

This coercive recruitment tactic echoes past practices where similar methods were employed to recruit young Ukrainians into Russian military service. Such actions not only violate the rights of these children but also escalate tensions and further destabilize the region.

Sources within Ukrainian intelligence agencies previously indicated that the Kremlin has drafted a presidential decree to announce mobilization by the end of September. This move comes amidst reported operational challenges faced by the Russian military and constraints on resources.