Ukrainian First Lady Olena Zelenska has been actively addressing the grave issue of Ukrainian children being forcibly taken to Russia amid the ongoing conflict. Recent reports indicate that over 19,000 Ukrainian children have been abducted, with only 1,227 successfully returned to Ukraine.
In a recent interview, Zelenska highlighted Russia’s deliberate obstructions in the repatriation process, emphasizing the urgency of international intervention to expedite the return of these children. To address this crisis, the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children was established, now comprising 41 countries dedicated to creating and implementing effective mechanisms to facilitate the children’s return.
Zelenska has consistently condemned Russia’s actions, labeling the abduction of approximately 19,500 children as “an act of genocide” under international law.
She has called upon global leaders to intensify efforts to locate and rescue these children, underscoring the critical need for swift and decisive action.
The abduction and forced assimilation of Ukrainian children have been widely condemned as violations of human rights and potential war crimes. The international community continues to rally support to address this humanitarian crisis and ensure the safe return of all abducted Ukrainian children.
