INDOCTRINATING A FUTURE RUSSIAN ELITE
Back in 2020, Russian oligarch and far-right ideologue Konstantin Malofeev founded a new youth organization called the Brotherhood of Academics ("Bratstva Akademistov" in Russian). Shortly before the start of the Ukraine War, that organization evolved into a series of cells operating in universities across twenty Russian cities and in parts of Russian-occupied Ukraine. Many of these chapters have been designated as official student associations, meaning that they are supported by the universities themselves.
What does the Brotherhood stand for? According to its website, the Brotherhood envisions a future where Russian imperialism is revitalized, allowing Moscow to become the leader of a new multi-polar world. It is a movement founded on traditional Russian spiritual and moral values, and on the belief in Russia as a unique country "endowed with a special spiritual and historical mission." And to prepare for this future, the Brotherhood has announced its intent to educate the "future elite of Russia."
To do so, the movement hosts a range of events, including balls in St. Petersburg, discussions about Russian nationalism with far-right politicians, intellectual competitions in Crimea, and most importantly military training. According to a spokesperson for the group, "Academics are the builders of the empire. For us it is important to be as close as possible to the front of the formation [of the empire] in deeds and not just words." Unsurprisingly, many members of the Brotherhood have volunteered to fight for Russia in the war against Ukraine, and most of its cells have sent first aid kits and "paramilitary cargo" to the front. (Groza, June 7, 2024)
FEMALE INMATES TO THE FRONT
In its latest attempt to solve chronic recruitment shortages for its war against Ukraine, Russia is dipping once more into the country's criminal population – this time focusing on female inmates. Beginning in late May, the New York Times reports, began sending female inmates to join the war – following preliminary moves to identify and recruit these cadres last Fall. In exchange for their service, these women receive a similar deal to their male counterparts; pardons for their crimes, along with a wage ten times the national average. As yet, however, it is unclear what role these women will play at the front, and whether this preliminary mobilization is a prelude to a larger enlistment of women for the battlefield. (New York Times, June 10, 2024)
THE UKRAINE WAR COMES HOME TO RUSSIA
Russia is now experiencing a severe mental health crisis as soldiers returning from Ukraine exhibit signs of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), including violent behavior, flashbacks, and substance abuse. These behaviors, in turn, have a real and negative effect on Russian society, creating volatile home environments and straining family relationships. The Kremlin's response, however, has remained inadequate, with scant resources and insufficient support for veterans. Therapy remains stigmatized and inaccessible for many, especially those in rural areas. The increase in violent crimes by returning soldiers underscores the urgency of the crisis. Efforts to address PTSD are hampered by a lack of specialized training and widespread alcohol abuse among soldiers. Courts often mitigate sentences for veterans, allowing many to escape significant consequences for violent actions. (Novaya Gazeta, June 10, 2024)
THE WAR ON UKRAINIAN EVANGELICALS
In September 2022, Russian soldiers stormed a Christian church in Melitopol, ending its services and converting it into a culture ministry covered with murals of dead Russian fighters. This takeover was an early move in a broader crackdown on non-Russian religious groups, especially evangelical Christians, in occupied Ukrainian territories, which are seen by Moscow as U.S. influences. Over the past two-and-a-half years, Ukrainian Evangelical leaders have experienced severe persecution, including abduction, torture, and outright killings at the hands of the Russian military. The crackdown mirrors Soviet-era repression, eradicating religious freedoms in these regions. Moreover, these actions are not just the corollary effects of Russia's full-scale invasion; rather, they reflect an effort by the Russian government to assert control over a vital segment of Ukrainian society, and elevate the status of the Russian Orthodox Church, which supports the invasion.
Despite the persecution, some evangelical churches have continued to operate. Some do so underground, amid accusations that they are harboring U.S. spies. Others have taken a different tack, publicly pledging allegiance to Russian authorities in order to be given the freedom to continue their activities. (Wall Street Journal, June 16, 2024)
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