Zelensky Accuses Russia of Training Abducted Ukrainian Children for Combat
Zelensky says Russia is training abducted Ukrainian children to fight for Moscow

Image: The Hill
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed that Russia is training abducted Ukrainian children to fight for its military. He stated that 1.6 million Ukrainian children are under Russian control, with 20,000 identified as facing deportation. Zelensky emphasized the need for sanctions against Russia and the importance of regaining leverage in negotiations.
- 01Zelensky confirmed evidence of Ukrainian children being trained by Russia to fight against their own country.
- 02A Ukrainian government tracker indicates that 1.6 million children are currently under Russian control.
- 03Zelensky mentioned that 20,000 adolescents have been identified as victims of deportation or forced transfer.
- 04So far, 2,200 children have been returned to Ukraine, with efforts ongoing to secure more releases.
- 05Zelensky urged Congress to impose sanctions on Russia for abducting children, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
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In a recent interview, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of training abducted Ukrainian children to serve in its military. He stated that these children are being taught to hate their homeland and could potentially be used against their own people on the battlefield. Zelensky revealed that approximately 1.6 million Ukrainian children are currently under Russian control, with 20,000 identified as having faced deportation or forced transfer. While 2,200 children have been successfully returned to Ukraine, efforts continue to secure the release of more. Zelensky criticized Russia's proposal to exchange children for Ukrainian prisoners of war, asserting that civilians should not be traded. He called for renewed sanctions against Russia, emphasizing the need for the international community, particularly Congress, to act on this issue. Additionally, Zelensky noted that Russia has been losing initiative on the battlefield since December 2025, suggesting a potential window for negotiations as Ukrainian forces gain leverage.
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The abduction and potential training of Ukrainian children by Russia could have significant psychological and social repercussions for Ukrainian society.
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