Ukraine brings back five children and families from Russia and occupied territories
Ukraine has successfully returned five children and their families from Russia and temporarily occupied territories, Andriy Yermak, Presidential Office head, wrote on Dec. 10.
The return was part of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s initiative, Bring Kids Back UA.
Among those returned are three young Ukrainians who recently turned 18. Two of them spent extended periods in Russia, enduring psychological pressure, while the third, who lacked family support, managed to leave an occupied area.
Notably, the operation also freed a family of four, including children aged 11 and 14, who faced persecution due to the pro-Ukrainian stance of their relatives.
A 77-year-old woman, unable to evacuate on her own, was also rescued.
“These stories reveal the terror and fear people endure under occupation," Yermak highlighted.
"Through coordination among state institutions, volunteer efforts, civil organizations, and international partners, we achieved this outcome. These Ukrainians, who have gone through unimaginable trials, are finally home.”
He extended his gratitude to the Presedential Office, the Ombudsman’s Office, and everyone involved in making these returns possible.
“We must bring all our children back to Ukraine — without exception and without conditions!” Yermak stressed.
Earlier, he highlighted the case of a Ukrainian soldier’s son who spent three years in Russian occupation.
On Nov. 12, Ukraine’s Ombudsman for Human Rights, Dmytro Lubinets, reported that 1,002 children were returned from Russia and occupied territories, with significant assistance from international partners, notably Qatar.
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