Russia increases pressure on residents of occupied territories - ISW
Illustrative photo: Russia seeks to speed up passportization in occupied territories (Getty Images)
Russia is increasing pressure on residents of occupied territories in an attempt to accelerate the passportization process, according to the report from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
"Russian occupation officials are increasing pressure on residents of occupied areas to re-register subscriber identity module (SIM) cards using Russian documents in an effort to expedite passportization process and exercise greater control over communication networks in occupied Ukraine," analytics state.
The report notes that the occupation authorities are taking steps to remotely register as many SIM cards as possible, with a deadline set for November 1.
Analysts also say that Russian-installed authorities are deploying Russkiy Mir satellite antennas to tighten control over the information space and isolate the territories from all non-pro-Russian news sources.
In addition, Russia continues efforts to implement patriotic education programs in schools across occupied territories, aiming to Russify Ukrainian children and youth. Teachers are reportedly instructed on how to present topics such as World War II and Soviet veterans.
"Russia is using the mythos of the Great Patriotic War as a means of eradicating Ukrainian historical and sociocultural identities in occupied areas. The Russification of schools in occupied Ukraine notably requires constant oversight from Russian officials," ISW added.
Putin's plans for eastern Ukraine
Earlier, Axios revealed details of a conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump, during which the Kremlin leader reportedly signaled plans to launch a new offensive in eastern Ukraine in the coming months.
Later, Trump told French President Emmanuel Macron that Putin "wants to take it all."
