Putin's War in Ukraine Claims Russian School-leavers
Russian forces have been withdrawing from Kyiv and other major Ukrainian cities after a fierce battle for control. Many of these soldiers were mere teenagers, conscripted into service from Russian schools. Putin's controversial recruitment policy has led to a sharp rise in dropout rates as many seek to avoid the perilous battle.
Experts Weigh In on Russian Youth Conscription
Experts say Putin's tactics of recruiting young Russians who are barely out of their teens is a worrying sign of the regime's mentality. It also underscores the lack of available personnel and military equipment to achieve a quick victory in Ukraine. With the war dragging on, many Russians are wondering how much more of their sons' lives Putin is prepared to sacrifice.
The Human Toll of Political Conflict
For many in Russia's predominantly youth protest movement, the war has sharpened their focus on Putin's authoritarianism and the need for political reform. While some see the war as a necessary geopolitical maneuver, others fear it will usher in a new era of heightened state control over Russian society.
