In Russia, spending on the militarization of young people will increase 20-fold by 2026
Russia’s spending on youth militarization programs in 2026 has increased 20-fold compared to the pre-war period, according to the Center for Countering Disinformation. According to the agency, instead of developing educational initiatives, Russian authorities are directing funds toward propaganda projects and the purchase of mock weapons for youth programs.
The Kremlin plans to spend nearly $800 million on the militarization of youth in 2026. This is nearly 20 times more than before the start of the full-scale war.
It is noted that these funds could have been used to build approximately 60 modern schools.
Instead, under the guise of “patriotic education,” Russian children are being indoctrinated with militarism, a cult of war, and loyalty to the regime. Instead of quality education and the development of critical thinking, Russia is conducting mass military-propaganda events, organizing games like “Zarnitsa,” and purchasing educational weapon models, including even inflatable “Katyushas,” the CPD notes.
They add that through concerts by propagandistic performers, militarized shows, and ideological campaigns, the Kremlin is purposefully shaping a generation for whom military aggression is to be perceived as the norm.
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