The War They Play

The Kyiv Independent’s team exposes the scale and the methods of Russia’s system to militarize and indoctrinate Ukrainian children as well as the individuals who run it. The horrifying testimony by a rescued child who spent a month in Russia’s notorious “Warrior” camp in combination with unique footage provides insight into Russia’s brutal system of militarization.

Good for:
those looking to understand how Russia’s system of militarization works as well as get a look into facilities that re-educate Ukrainian children.

Feel free:
to watch the full documentary on YouTube and organize in-district screenings and panels on the issue in your community.

Uprooted

Kyiv independent investigated the forcible deportation of Ukrainian children from occupied Mariupol. The investigative journalists tracked down 31 children abducted by Russia as well as people and organizations involved in their abduction. Personal stories of families separated by this crime were accompanied by comments of the experts, illustrating the systematic nature of Russian abductions through personal lenses of people affected by it. By the end of the documentary viewers know the answers to the most frequently asked questions: How many children did Russia steal? How does Russia conduct abductions? Why can't parents just go to Russia and retrieve their children? and many more.

Good for:
people who are new to the issue and are looking for a concise overview of the systematic nature of the crime as well as personal stories.

Feel free:
to watch the full documentary on YouTube and organize in-district screenings and panels on the issue in your community.

Blue Sweater, Yellow Hole

Ukrainian director Tetiana Khodakivska partners with Ukrainian artist Alevtina Kakhisze to create "Blue Sweater, Yellow Hole" — a documentary exploring the experiences of Ukrainian children who were held in Russian "re-education" camps. The film uses animation to depict their memories of the camps, focusing on the psychological impact of propaganda, isolation, and military training. The film also delves into the broader issue of identity alteration and the manipulation of information. The film is scheduled to be released in 2026.

Feel free:
to follow the documentary on Instagram and invite its creators to the events about abduction of children.

After the Rain

A group of Ukrainian families who have been affected by Russian policy of child abductions and family separation visit a healing therapy retreat near the Baltic Sea. Guided by skilled and sensitive counselors children unravel the horrific details of their experience in the Russian captivity while their parents share the struggles they had to endure to return the children. A scenic nature backdrop provides cushioning to the difficult stories children share. The movie focuses on the impact that Russian abductions have on children and their mental health rather than the details of the crime itself. It is a story of hope, resilience and healing.

Good for:
people interested in the issue but who are not ready to immerse completely in the details behind it. May be especially interesting to professionals in mental health and child welfare.

Feel free:
to request permission to screen the documentary in your community on their website.