In Ukraine, nearly 50 cases have been recorded where children reported attempts of recruitment by Russian agents.
This was revealed by the head of the juvenile police of Ukraine, Vasyl Bohdan, during a telethon, as reported by Ukrinform.
"Currently, we are observing a consistent increase in the number of reports from children about recruitment attempts. To date, almost 50 children have approached the National Police, claiming that they were contacted by unknown individuals via messengers and social networks, who encouraged them to set fire to military vehicles, state buildings, and critical infrastructure, as well as to gather various information in exchange for financial rewards," Bohdan stated.
According to him, the juvenile prevention unit of the National Police, in collaboration with the Security Service of Ukraine, is implementing an awareness campaign across the country. During school visits, lectures, discussions, and open lessons are held to enhance teenagers' legal awareness.
Law enforcement officers also work with parents and educators, explaining how to recognize signs of recruitment, how to communicate with children, and what to do in case of a threat.
Initially, children may be offered to perform simple tasks, such as gathering information about military locations or distributing flyers that discredit the Armed Forces of Ukraine or contain elements of Russian propaganda, before being prompted to take on more challenging tasks.
Earlier, the Ministry of Education had explained how to identify if a child has been recruited by Russian special services.
In Dnipropetrovsk region, law enforcement awarded two teenagers who resisted recruitment attempts by the FSB.