In Ukraine, another 12 children abducted by Russia have been returned: efforts and hope for the return of Ukrainian citizens
Ukraine has taken another significant step in its fight to bring back its citizens who were illegally deported from occupied territories by Russia. According to information released by Daria Zaryvnaya, director of the Bring Kids Back UA initiative, on her Telegram channel, through active work and diplomatic efforts, a total of 12 more Ukrainian children, abducted or illegally deported by Russian occupiers from Ukrainian territory, have been successfully returned home. These cases again highlight the scale and complexity of the problem of citizen abductions from temporarily occupied areas. According to Zaryvnaya’s report, among the children returned is a 10-year-old boy from a large family, which the Russian occupation administration subjected to targeted pressure. The invaders threatened to place the boy in an orphanage if his family refused to acceptance of Russian propaganda and education at a school controlled by them. However, threats and psychological pressure were not the only tactics used by the Russians. In one case, the boy was even registered as a conscript and forcibly made to serve, while the older brother of the family was subjected to humiliating treatment, discriminatory actions, and brutal conduct. Furthermore, another family at constant risk from occupation authorities was successfully rescued. This family, which faced repression and intimidation on a regular basis, managed to escape and found protection with Ukrainian diplomats and benefactors. An important moment was when Russian soldiers tried to seize the 10-year-old boy from his grandmother during an attempt by the family to leave the occupied area independently. Armed Russian soldiers uncontrollably separated the family and, using force and intimidation, took the boy away in an unknown direction. Thanks to coordinated efforts by Ukrainian diplomats, international partners, and charitable organizations, the evacuation of the child and his family was organized. All efforts are aimed at rescuing as many Ukrainian children and their relatives as possible from brutal captivity and the psychological trauma inflicted by the occupiers. This latest victory in the process of returning Ukrainian citizens demonstrates not only the effectiveness of the united efforts of the Ukrainian government and the international community but also the unwavering will of the Ukrainian people to fight for their children and their future during wartime. Authorities and civil activists call on everyone not to give up and to continue providing comprehensive support to all those affected by Russian aggression and fighting to reunite with their loved ones. An inspiring example of Ukrainian resilience and determination reaffirms once again: despite difficulties and dangers, Ukraine will not be left alone in this test. Together — in the fight for peace and the safety of its citizens — we can achieve victory and restore justice for every Ukrainian child.