### Kremlin Seeks to Uplift Veterans Amid Ongoing Conflicts

In a strategic shift aimed at rehabilitating the image of war veterans, the Kremlin is fostering a culture that elevates the status of those who served in recent conflicts, particularly in Ukraine. This initiative comes decades after veterans from Chechnya and Afghanistan returned to silence and neglect.

Ilya Rusinov, a current example of this movement, sustained serious injuries while serving in the conflict and has since turned to training others through his initiative, "Zveno" or "Squad." This growing organization is part of a larger trend indicating a rising societal demand for military training and patriotism, especially among youth. Reflecting the Kremlin's approach, Rusinov has shifted from teaching to focusing entirely on this patriotic endeavor as demand has soared.

As part of this public relations effort, veterans are now receiving a platform at schools, engaging in mandatory basic weapons education for students, and appearing prominently in the media. State-sponsored broadcasts such as the show "Ours" showcase veterans' narratives, celebrating their experiences and contributions to the war. Such initiatives mark a significant pivot in how Russian society perceives and interacts with its veterans, aiming to instill a sense of pride and acceptance.

This potent combination of education, media representation, and societal integration underlines the Kremlin's broader strategy: to rebuild the veterans’ image while reinforcing nationalistic sentiments in a nation still grappling with the complexities of war.