The Kremlin is strengthening its control over the young population in the TOT by organizing a system reminiscent of the Hetlerjugend, where students are forced to work, used in propaganda “humanitarian missions” and actively imposed Russian narratives, etc.
According to information, including from representatives of the russian occupation administration, there has been a sharp increase in the number of student groups of the so-called “student troops” in the TOT of Donetsk region. At the same time, the “head” of the regional headquarters of the “Donetsk regional branch of Russian student detachments” Oleksandr Kulgina stated that the number of participants is constantly growing. In 2023, there were 500 people, in 2024 – 800, and this year their number should increase to 2,000.
The invaders present this as a positive trend related to the resumption of full-time education and the growing interest of students in further employment. However, this informational facade hides the forced mobilization of young people to perform tasks that are beneficial to the occupation administration.
In addition, students are forced to work on construction sites, agricultural work and other industries where there is a shortage of labor. They are also actively involved in the so-called “humanitarian missions” that are used to spread Russian propaganda and create a positive image of the occupation administration.
Along with this, the occupiers pay special attention to the ideological processing of young people. Participants of the “student troops” are imposed Russian narratives about “fraternal peoples”, “historical unity” and “defense against Ukrainian Nazism”. They are forced to participate in propaganda events, such as rallies, concerts, and meetings with “veterans,” etc.
Thus, the “student troops” on the TOT have become an instrument of forced labor and ideological indoctrination of young people, which is a gross violation of human rights and international law.
You can stop the policy of the Russian invaders and their collaborators by publicizing their crimes and demanding their international prosecution. You can also participate in rallies in support of Ukraine or donate to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
