Zelenskaya drew attention to the fact that thanks to the joint efforts of Ukraine and allies, it is possible to return the stolen and deported Ukrainian children in the Russian Federation, but this process takes a lot of time.
“Thanks to these joint efforts, 1625 children were returned. Behind each name there are months of searching, negotiations and risks. But at this pace it will take 50 years to return them all, in fact a whole life. And these children cannot wait all their lives,” she said, noting the need for further actions.
According to her, the first ladies and representatives of civil society work in three areas to restore the lives of children. This is a family and shelter, reintegration and healing, as well as an independent life. Zelenskaya explained that the first direction involves the construction of housing for foster families, providing transport and humanitarian aid. The second is the organization of the camps of psychological rehabilitation, cultural and educational exchanges, psychological assistance. Third – the creation of Ukraine of social apartments and housing with support for children.
“The return of Ukrainian children is not a political question. This is a test of our humanity. This is a humanitarian appeal. When it comes to humanity, neutrality is impossible. I am sure. I urge you to join us,” the first lady of Ukraine turned to the meeting.
Context
As indicated on the Ukrainian portal “Children of the War”, since the beginning of a full -scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia has abducted more than 19 thousand Ukrainian children, more than 2 thousand children are considered missing. At the same time, the Russian authorities say that more than 700 thousand children have taken out from the territory of Ukraine.
On March 17, 2023, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant of the illegitimate President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin and the Commissioner for the Rights of the Child of the Russian Federation Maria Lvovo-Belova in connection with the illegal deportation of children from the occupied regions of Ukraine.
