What's happened
Several veterans of the Ukraine invasion are interning in the Kremlin's Time of Heroes program, aimed at integrating them into the political elite. This initiative reflects ongoing efforts to bolster military recruitment amid waning public support for the war, while also enhancing the image of military service in Russia.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Moscow Times, the Kremlin's Time of Heroes program has enrolled veterans to enhance their image and integrate them into the political elite. Analyst Abbas Gallyamov notes that this initiative is more about propaganda than genuine integration. Meanwhile, the New York Times highlights the cultural impact of figures like Serhiy Zhadan, who joined the military, resonating with the public and boosting morale. This dual narrative illustrates the complex interplay between military service and societal perception in Russia and Ukraine.
How we got here
Since the onset of the Ukraine war, the Kremlin has sought to elevate the status of military veterans, promoting them as a new societal elite. This initiative aligns with President Putin's vision of integrating veterans into government roles to enhance recruitment and public morale.
More on these topics
-
Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
-
Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as President of Russia since 2012, previously holding the position from 1999 until 2008.