Media: Medinský characterized Ukraine’s demand to return deported children as “a show for European grandmothers”
In the context of recent diplomatic negotiations in Istanbul, an unpleasant incident occurred that drew the attention of international observers and diplomats. The head of the Russian delegation, Vladimir Medinský, sharply reacted during the meeting to Ukraine's request to return deported children from Russia. According to available information, he made a statement that many are already calling inappropriate and disrespectful: allegedly, he described the process of handing over the list of Ukrainian children deported by Russia as "a show for childless European grandmothers," which caused indignation and surprise among many participants in the negotiation process. It should be noted that a source who wished to remain anonymous, citing journalist Oliver Carroll of The Economist, reported that during the transfer of the Ukrainian delegation's lists to the Russian leader, it was Medinský who made this crude and contemptuous remark. According to the interlocutor, when Ukrainian diplomats handed over Russia a list of hundreds of deported children, the Russian official responded roughly: "Don't put on a show for sentimental European grandmothers who have no children of their own," thus demonstrating a complete disregard for human tragedy and international commitments. Overall, the situation in Istanbul seems to symbolize not only the complexity of negotiations regarding the return of deported Ukrainian children but also the overt hostility of the Russian delegation toward this topic. The Ukrainian side insisted that Russian authorities accelerate the process of returning children who were illegally deported during the military conflict, violating international norms and agreements. However, in response, Ukrainian delegates heard brazen remarks and displays of contempt that were entirely unprofessional and un diplomatic. Recall that on June 2, during negotiations in Istanbul, the Ukrainian side provided a Russian list of several hundred deported children who need to be returned. This information is crucial for Ukraine, as the return of children is one of the main humanitarian issues and an important step toward restoring justice and protecting the rights of those affected. However, the outcomes and the fact of such a rude game on the part of the Russian representative rather indicate disregard for Ukrainian interests and a lack of proper diplomatic culture. Overall, the situation demonstrates how acute and complex the issue of returning children deported to Russia during the conflict remains and how important it is for the international community to continue persistent efforts to reach agreements and protect the rights of those affected. It is hoped that subsequent negotiations will bring a more constructive and humane approach from all participants.