Kathrine Frich
After Mr Nobody Against Putin won an Oscar in 2026, global attention turned to its portrayal of propaganda inside Russian classrooms.
The documentary showed how education has become a key channel for promoting state messaging to younger generations.
Classroom rollout
According to Verstka cited by United24media, Russian schools have begun using comic books that depict participants in the invasion of Ukraine as heroic figures.
Since February, students aged roughly 11 to 15 have been introduced to the materials during lessons.
Members of the Yunarmiya youth movement have reportedly attended some sessions in uniform.
Heroic portrayal
The comics focus on 15 individuals involved in the war, presenting them as role models.
The author described the collection as a “panorama of 15 inspiring stories, telling of true heroism, unwavering steadfastness and selfless dedication.”
However, several of those featured have been accused of war crimes by Ukrainian and European authorities.
One of the characters highlighted is Ivan Boldyrev, described as having “for the first time in history performed a jet ejection from a helicopter in battle.”
Ukrainian officials have placed him on a list known as the “Book of Executioners.”
Another figure, Colonel Zalibek Umaev, is portrayed as leading operations against what the comics describe as “neo-Nazis,” despite allegations linked to battlefield conduct.
wider messaging
Senior Lieutenant Vladislav Golovin is also featured, with the comics claiming his unit “defended for four days against superior enemy forces, destroying 150 militants, several pieces of equipment and the Azov headquarters.”
Golovin is under EU sanctions related to his role in the war.
Officials say the material is designed to influence how students view the conflict.
Maxim Dreval, head of the Znanie Society, said the aim is for students to understand national responsibility.
Through the comics, children “realize the true price of peace and responsibility for their country.”
According to reports, hundreds of thousands of copies have already been distributed.
The rollout comes alongside broader efforts to expand youth military programs and media training for children.
Sources: Verstka, United24Media
