OSCE Report Accuses Russia of Systematically Militarizing Ukrainian Children

Independent experts appointed under the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Moscow Mechanism presented a report in Vienna on July 9, 2026, concluding that the Federal Government of Russia has implemented a coordinated state policy to systematically militarize and indoctrinate Ukrainian children. The investigation found that children as young as six undergo political indoctrination, with compulsory military training beginning at 13 and conscription at 18. This system utilizes education, youth organizations, and security agencies to create a pipeline for service in the Russian armed forces.

The report asserts that these actions, affecting over 20,600 deported children and more than one million others under Russian control, may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, including torture and unlawful deportation. Russia is accused of using forced assimilation by banning Ukrainian-language instruction and requiring Russian citizenship for access to essential services.

Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiha stated the findings prove a deliberate state policy to destroy the identity of an entire generation. Other officials, including Deputy Minister Mariana Betsa and Human Rights Commissioner Dmytro Lubinets, have called for increased international pressure and noted that reported casualty figures for children may be significantly higher. The findings will be discussed at the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children Ministerial Conference in Toronto on September 28–29, 2026, to determine legal measures for the return of the children.