Gazprom, Rosneft Help Russia Erase Ukrainian Children's Identity: Yale Study

Russian companies, including state-owned giants Gazprom and Rosneft, are actively participating in a campaign to erase the identity of Ukrainian children, a recent Yale University study reveals. This initiative extends beyond state structures, drawing significant financial resources from major businesses.

The primary focus is on what can be described as a "battle for the minds of Ukrainian children." The study identified 44 entities involved, comprising 20 companies and 24 individuals. However, only six companies and no individuals currently face U.S. sanctions.

Olena Cherviakova emphasized the need for increased international pressure on Russian firms and individuals engaged in this policy. She noted that Russia still possesses sufficient resources to continue its strategy of destroying the identity of Ukrainian children under its control, including those in temporarily occupied territories or those who have been deported.

"We can identify specific individuals who are not yet subject to sanctions and can continue to call on our international partners, as well as coordinate efforts within Ukraine to unite our actions," Cherviakova stated. She also reported that at least 2,158 children from temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories attended Russian camps between 2022 and 2025, where they were subjected to a policy of instilling Russian values. Ukraine has so far managed to repatriate 2,368 children deported by Russia.

“

We can identify specific individuals who are not yet subject to sanctions and can continue to call on our international partners, as well as coordinate efforts within Ukraine to unite our actions.