**Russia’s Secret Camps: Where Ukrainian Children are Indoctrinated**
In a disturbing report, Ukraine’s Center for Countering Disinformation (CCD) has revealed that Russia has transferred 50 children from the occupied Antratsyt district of Luhansk Oblast to a so-called rehabilitation camp in Kalmykia. This move is part of a larger effort by Russia to assimilate Ukrainian children and erase their identity.
The “Lesnaya Skazka” (“Forest Fairy Tale”) camp, located in Kalmykia, is officially described as hosting sports and creative activities. However, according to the CCD, it functions as a site of ideological brainwashing, systematic Russification, and an attempt to erase Ukrainian identity. This is not an isolated incident; since February 2022, at least 20,000 Ukrainian children have been abducted from Russian-occupied territories and sent to other Russian-controlled areas of Ukraine or to Russia itself.
**A Violation of Humanitarian Law**
The CCD has compared the camp in Kalmykia to “Krasnaya Gvozdika” (“Red Carnation”), a facility in occupied Zaporizhzhia Oblast. Both camps, according to the CCD, are used not for recreation but as tools of Russia’s war strategy. These camps have become instruments of assimilation where Ukrainian children are taught distorted history, exposed to Russian propaganda, and conditioned to show loyalty to the Putin regime.
Separating children from their families, culture, and language places them under the full control of the occupying power – a practice that constitutes a violation of international humanitarian law. The CCD emphasizes that this is part of Russia’s broader genocidal policy toward Ukraine.
**International Response**
In response to Russia’s efforts to indoctrinate Ukrainian children, President Volodymyr Zelensky has imposed sanctions on 48 individuals and nine organizations associated with the deportation of Ukrainian children. This move demonstrates Ukraine’s commitment to protecting its citizens from Russian aggression.
The international community must also take action against these camps and condemn Russia’s actions. The United States and other G7 members should lower the price cap on Russian oil, as proposed, to further isolate Russia and hinder their ability to fund their war efforts.
**A Growing Crisis**
As tensions between Iran and Israel escalate, it is essential that the international community remains vigilant in its response to these conflicts. The reported civilian casualties in both countries are a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of war.
In conclusion, Russia’s secret camps are a clear example of their efforts to assimilate Ukrainian children and erase their identity. It is crucial that the international community takes action against these camps and condemns Russia’s actions. We must work together to protect human rights and prevent further atrocities in Ukraine and beyond.
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