Ukrainian teens allegedly coerced into Russia occupied camps, prompting international outcry

Several Ukrainian teenagers, residing in Kherson following its occupation by Russian forces in March 2022, were reportedly compelled by school officials to attend a “camp” in Russian-occupied Crimea. As per the report, one student, 17-year-old Denys Berezhnyi, studying to be a locksmith, claimed a school official informed him in October 2022 about the camp requirement, asserting his parents had already authorized the necessary travel documents, despite their alleged unawareness. Fearful of consequences, Berezhnyi, along with other children, traveled by bus and boat to Crimea. Allegations against Russia include accusations of kidnapping or forcibly relocating over 6,000 Ukrainian children to various camps across Russia. Some children were purportedly subjected to “re-education camps” or military training programs, engaging in activities related to military equipment and firearms. These re-education camps reportedly impart Russia-centric academic, cultural, patriotic, and/or military education to Ukrainian children, according to a study funded by the US State Department. Incidents of children being punished or falling ill have been reported, including Berezhnyi, a diabetic, who claimed hospitalization against his will due to insulin shortage. The situation prompted organizations like Save Ukraine to assist in the return of affected children, often facing complications. In March, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of illegally deporting Ukrainian children. The United Nations Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine acknowledged the unclear number and circumstances of children removed from their homes. Russia’s Deputy Ambassador to the UN, Dmitry Polyanskiy, denied accusations of “stealing children” and asserted Russia was “saving” them. Despite ongoing concerns, children taken to Russia or Russian-occupied territories lack the means to return independently, spending extended periods away from their homes. The UN Commission noted that targeted children are often those in orphanages, hospitals, or those who lost contact with parents or legal guardians post-Russian invasion in February 2022.