The Kremlin is increasing efforts to change the demographic composition of the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine (TOT) in order to legitimize the claims of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin. This is stated in its report by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), UNN reports.
Details
Analysts note that Putin has signed a decree according to which Ukrainian civilians who are "illegally" residing on the territory of Russia and the occupied territories of Ukraine must "settle their legal status" or leave Russia and the TOT by September 10, 2025.
The Kremlin has conducted a thorough passporting campaign to force Ukrainians living in the occupation to obtain Russian citizenship, in an attempt to legitimize Russia's territorial claims to the occupied territories and strengthen control over the local population.
Analysts point out that the Kremlin has also been conducting resettlement campaigns to artificially reduce the number of Ukrainians living in the TOT and increase the number of Russians in these territories. Putin's decree also obliges "foreigners", presumably including Ukrainian citizens, and stateless persons entering the TOT to undergo Russian medical examinations and blood tests.
"Historically, the Kremlin has used these tests to obtain personal data in order to then pressure Ukrainians to submit to the occupying authorities and serve in the Russian army, as well as to forcibly deport Ukrainian children to Russia," ISW notes.
Recall
In 2023, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin signed a decree stating that Ukrainian citizens will be able to enter and leave Russia without visas on the basis of an internal passport.