Ukraine Police Receives Over 130 Reports on Minor Recruitment

The National Police of Ukraine has received more than 130 reports from children and their parents regarding attempts by Russian intelligence services to recruit minors. These revelations were shared by Andrii Niebytov, the Deputy Chief of the National Police, during a televised update. The reports indicate a concerning strategy by Russian agencies to engage young individuals in activities related to terrorism and sabotage. To combat this issue, police have initiated a media campaign aimed at educating parents and children about the risks of recruitment attempts, particularly on online platforms. Niebytov emphasized the importance of awareness and preventive action, asserting that law enforcement is intensifying its efforts to protect vulnerable youth. In addition to outreach through media and schools, the police are incorporating advanced technologies into their strategies. Officers from juvenile and patrol units have been assigned to schools as part of an initiative to prevent children from being drawn into criminal activities orchestrated by Russian operatives. The intent is to create a support system that ensures children's safety in educational environments. The situation is dire, as the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) identified a minor who was allegedly involved in recruiting residents in the Kirovohrad region for terrorist acts. This instance underscores the urgent need for vigilance against recruitment efforts targeting young people. In 2025 alone, Ukrainian law enforcement documented 61 cases of terrorist acts and sabotage, successfully resolving 57 of those incidents. Additionally, authorities were able to prevent 27 planned crimes before they could be carried out. These statistics reveal the ongoing threat posed by Russian intelligence and the significant challenges faced by law enforcement in safeguarding the nation from both immediate and long-term risks. As Ukrainian state agencies work to bolster their defenses against these malicious attempts, the focus remains on education, prevention, and holding accountable those who attempt to exploit the younger generation for nefarious purposes. Ensuring the safety and security of minors in Ukraine must remain a priority as the country navigates these complex challenges.