Putin approved the strategy until 2036: how it will affect the occupied territories

The President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, has approved a new national policy strategy of the Russian Federation until 2036. Its goal is to strengthen Russian identity and to spread the influence of Russian culture, including in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine.

The strategy aims to involve over 2.5 million residents of the occupied territories in nationwide activities, enhance the role of the Russian language, and promote Russian culture, aimed at Russification and integration of Ukrainians into the Russian cultural space.

Experts believe these actions are part of the Kremlin's strategy to destroy Ukrainian identity, which may lead to control and repression in the occupied areas. New laws allow the occupying authorities to use coercion in implementing their goals, including the mobilization of any resident aged 18 to 50 into the army.