The Russian occupation administration continues its systematic militarization of education in the temporarily occupied territories (TOT) of Ukraine. As part of this campaign, nearly 200 schools in the TOT have already been renamed after so-called “Heroes of the Russian Federation” — Russian military personnel who participated in the war of aggression against Ukraine.
Through these actions, the occupiers are actively attempting to reshape the worldview of the younger generation. Under the pretext of “patriotic education,” children are forced to study the biographies of Russian invaders, attend mandatory “lessons of courage” conducted by Russian soldiers, and absorb propaganda narratives that justify the occupation and war crimes of the Russian Federation in Ukraine.
Moreover, an extensive program in the TOT integrates Russian war veterans into the education system. Former Russian soldiers returning from the front undergo so-called “retraining” before becoming teachers of military and patriotic disciplines. These individuals actively instruct children in “the basics of security and homeland defense,” effectively preparing them for future service in the occupation army.
Schools in the TOT have been transformed into propaganda centers, where children are indoctrinated with “Russian military patriotism” from an early age. They are forced to view the occupiers as “liberators” and are systematically stripped of their Ukrainian identity.
The National Resistance Center emphasizes that the militarization of education in the TOT constitutes yet another crime of the Russian Federation against Ukraine. All those responsible will ultimately face just punishment under international law and at the hands of the Ukrainian people.
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.
