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Students in the eastern city of Kharkiv are learning about bulletproof vests and explosives, as well as practising evacuation drills and first aid, as Ukraine prepares for a possible major Russian military assault.
The city, which is under Ukrainian government control, is home to tank, aeroplane, and tractor manufacturing and is located 40 kilometres (25 miles) from the Russian border.
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has identified it as a potential Russian target, however his spokesman has stated that he is speaking hypothetically.
Russia has denied any plans to invade Ukraine, but the authorities are not taking any chances, especially now that Moscow has recognised two breakaway areas in the former Soviet republic’s east.
“We’ve started practising those drills for kids more frequently to avoid situations where kids get harmed or, God forbid, die,” civilian defence specialist Oleksandr Shevchuk said.
“We… allowed them to try on our helmets, vests, and outfits. Demonstrate the dangers of explosive materials to youngsters so that they are prepared for any eventuality.”
According to Nazar, a student: “Given the general state of affairs between Ukraine and Russia, this is really pertinent. Yes, it’s terrifying, extremely frightening.”
