Zelenskyy highlights progress in returning children taken to Russia

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that more than 2,100 Ukrainian children have been returned under the Bring Kids Back UA initiative, which is focused on recovering children taken to Russia.

In a statement published on Telegram, Zelenskyy outlined the latest results of the programme after receiving a briefing from initiative representatives Oleksandr Bevz and Maksym Maksymov.

“I heard a report from representatives of the Bring Kids Back UA team, Oleksandr Bevz and Maksym Maksymov, on the results of the initiative,” he said.

“In total, more than 2,100 Ukrainian children abducted by Russia have been returned since the initiative began. Of these, 150 have been returned since the beginning of this year. I thank all partners who are helping us in this effort.”

Zelenskyy also pointed to growing international recognition of the issue, highlighting a recent development at the level of the United Nations.

“We also discussed support for our efforts at the level of international organisations. Recently, for the first time at the UN level, the deportation and forced transfer of our children was classified as a crime against humanity. This is very important, and such work must continue,” he said.

The Ukrainian president added that preparations are underway for a key international meeting aimed at strengthening cooperation on the issue.

“We are preparing for a meeting of the international coalition for the return of Ukrainian children at the ministerial level, which will take place on May 11 in Brussels. We expect broad representation, concrete decisions, and practical support from partners,” Zelenskyy said.

By Tamilla Hasanova