The authorities of Donetsk region have made a radical decision regarding the evacuation of children from the villages of Shakhove and Toretske, located within twenty kilometers of the combat zone
This step was taken as a consequence of the critical situation that has developed in the region due to active military operations and rapid changes at the front. The regional official and head of the Donetsk Military Administration, Vadym Filashkin, confirmed that a decision was made to forcefully evacuate children from these two settlements, along with their parents or legal guardians. According to Filashkin’s statement, this decision was made back on May 2 and is now actively being implemented. The region’s leader explained that the villages of Shakhove and Toretske are about 15-20 kilometers from the front line of hostilities. Approximately 80 children of different ages live there, all of whom face life threats due to intensified military actions near their homes. The regional head emphasized that instructions have already been issued to local authorities and management structures of the Donetsk Regional State Administration to quickly organize the evacuation and to ensure safe conditions for the children and their families in more peaceful and secure areas of Ukraine. He highlighted the urgent need to act swiftly, as, in his words, time is the most valuable resource in this situation. In his appeal, Filashkin urged all remaining residents of the region to evacuate as early as possible from zones of potential danger while it is still possible to do so, in order to avoid tragic consequences. This decision has sparked wide resonance among the public and local residents: some support the authorities’ measures as a necessary step to preserve children’s lives and health, while others express concerns about the potential impact of evacuation on families that will be left without support. Nonetheless, the official stance remains unchanged — ensuring children’s safety and their right to proper protection must be the priority of state policy in this crisis. Amid escalating military actions in the region, this evacuation program is one of the most active and large-scale efforts in recent times, and its successful implementation requires coordinated work from many government agencies, local authorities, and volunteer organizations. The issues of safety and humanitarian aid for children in this complex situation are currently under close control by regional leadership and the Ministry for Reintegration and Temporarily Occupied Territories.