Russian President Vladimir Putin is intensifying efforts to promote military-patriotic education among Russian youth, including children in occupied Ukrainian territories. This initiative coincides with plans to designate 2025 as the “Year of the Defender of the Fatherland,” aiming to reinforce military service and foster patriotic sentiment across Russian society.
On December 20, Putin approved government directives that include:
Establishing “military-sports camps” to encourage military enlistment among youth.
Expanding the “Roads of Victory” program, offering free excursions to sites of Russian “military glory” for children.
Creating an online platform for military-patriotic educational activities.
Transforming a children’s “health camp” into a year-round facility.
The “Roads of Victory” program seeks to cultivate patriotism by exposing young people to historical narratives centered on Russian military achievements. These initiatives align with the Kremlin’s broader strategy of militarizing youth, including the use of “Avangard” military and sports camps to influence children in occupied Ukrainian regions.
Additionally, the Kremlin is bolstering youth organizations like Yunarmiya and Movement of the First to promote military service and loyalty. Programs such as “Time of Heroes,” which places war veterans in government roles, further support this societal militarization.
Putin’s designation of 2025 as the “Year of the Defender of the Fatherland” reflects a focus on military and ideological priorities. Analysts suggest this strategy aligns with Russia’s ongoing war efforts in Ukraine and potential future conflicts with Western nations.
Meanwhile, on December 21, Ukrainian forces conducted drone strikes in Kazan, the capital of Russia’s Republic of Tatarstan. Footage shows drones striking apartment buildings and other structures, reportedly after partial disruption by Russian electronic warfare systems.
Russian authorities reported destroying six drones near Kazan, with others striking near a river and an industrial site. Opposition media speculated the targets might have included military or industrial facilities, such as a gunpowder plant, airfield, or helicopter production site.
Following the incident, Putin contacted Tatarstan’s Head, Rustam Minnikhanov, who inspected the damaged areas. The strikes underscore Ukraine’s ability to target Russian territory amid the ongoing conflict.
These developments highlight the escalating dynamics of the war, with both sides intensifying efforts on the battlefield and in shaping public narratives.
