Russia indoctrinates children from occupied Ukraine at 210 sites, study says – Tue, 16 Sep 2025 PST

Key Takeaways:

• Russia’s program extends to 210 sites, surpassing earlier estimates
• The children involved are from Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine
• Investigators at Yale University conducted the recent study
• The camps include military and police training components
• The program’s breadth raises serious humanitarian concerns

The Yale University Study

A new investigation by Yale University war crime investigators indicates that Russia has developed an extensive program focused on Ukrainian children from occupied territories. Released on a Tuesday in mid-September, the report states the operation is “far larger than estimated earlier.”

The Program’s Scope

According to the findings, Russian authorities have established 210 sites dedicated to what the study calls reeducation. The targeted children come from areas of Ukraine that are under Russian occupation, suggesting a vast and organized system that permeates numerous regions.

Military and Police Training

Beyond conventional attempts at indoctrination, this program includes military and police training for the children. Details released in the study point to a secretive approach, making it challenging to determine exactly how the training is conducted and the full extent of its long-term impact on these minors.

Broader Implications

Human rights observers are raising alarms over these findings. With the involvement of children and the scale of these activities, there are potential violations of international law. While the report stems from a limited release of information, it underscores the urgent need for broader global attention and investigation into Russia’s activities in occupied Ukrainian territories.