An independent mission from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) documented a Russian system designed to erase the national identity of Ukrainian children and turn them into soldiers. The report, prepared through the Moscow Mechanism, reveals systematic practices of indoctrination and militarization from an early age.
Documented practices
According to experts, minors are exposed to compulsory pro-war propaganda from the age of six. Between 13 and 18 years old, they receive training in weapons handling, tactical medicine and drone operation.
In addition, the report points out the elimination of teaching in Ukrainian and the persecution against those who express their national identity. Upon reaching the age of majority, adolescents are forced to join the Russian armed forces to fight against their country of origin.
The investigation also indicates that children forcibly deported to Russia have suffered violations of international humanitarian and human rights law.
Possible crimes against humanity
Experts Hervé Ascensio, Elina Šteinerte and Stefan Wolff concluded that these actions could constitute a crime against humanity in the form of persecution, and identified probable war crimes. They recommend that the return of Ukrainian children be a central element of any peace negotiations, without exchanges, and that Russia be held accountable.
Ukraine’s response
Given this situation, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry invited Mexico to join the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, made up of 47 countries and three international organizations.




