Key Takeaways:
- Ukraine’s return of abducted children is complex, as they cannot be exchanged like troops or POWs.
- Ukraine has managed to bring back over 3,500 soldiers till now, amidst Russian obstruction.
- Ukraine has documented 19,500 of its children who were forcibly deported by Russia.
- Ukraine is seeking international support to end the war and prioritize its citizens’ return.A total of 1,030 children have been returned with efforts from global partners like Qatar and Vatican.
Zelensky’s Challenge with returning Abducted Children
In a recent discussion, President Volodymyr Zelensky voiced a major predicament in restoring normality in Ukraine – the return of abducted children. The country has made significant strides in swapping captured Russian soldiers for Ukrainian Prisoners of War (POWs). However, Zelensky affirmed that the matter of bringing back forcibly deported Ukrainian children is extremely challenging.
He explicitly stated, “We cannot exchange children for children. Our forcibly deported Ukrainian kids are there. We don’t hold Russian kids. Not a single person was abducted, we didn’t kill a single civilian, not a single child was injured there.”
Exchanging Troops for Troops
So far, Ukraine has proven its capability in returning its soldiers to home soil. It has successfully repatriated more than 3,500 soldiers, despite incessant restrictions imposed by Russia. This effort showcases the country’s commitment to its military forces and its intention to uphold justice for its POWs.
Ukraine’s Children – The Hidden Victims of the War
Sadly, Ukraine’s most vulnerable have also been touched by the horrors of war. The Ukrainian President revealed that the country has identified approximately 19,500 children who have been forcibly deported by Russia. Disturbingly, the Russian Ombudsperson had previously indicated that 700,000 Ukrainian children had been taken away from their home country, a number concerning in its enormity.
“I don’t know how true it is”, admits Zelensky, “But it’s terrible, they are proud that they abducted children.”
International Support Essential for Children’s Return
In light of this crisis, Ukraine is depending on international support to secure the safe return of its youngest citizens. Partnerships with countries like Qatar and the Vatican have already demonstrated their potential, enabling the recovery of over 1,030 children. Yet, the magnitude of the issue makes continued, and further, international collaboration integral to its resolution.
A Plea for Help from Global Allies
Zelensky reiterates his hope for aid from European partners and the United States in ending the pervasive war. The issue of returning its citizens, especially its children, remains a crucial concern for Ukraine. The nation continues to face significant hurdles but has its priorities clear – to ensure the war’s end and facilitate the safe return of its citizens.
In conclusion, Ukraine’s plight highlights the grim side of war – the abduction and forced deportation of innocent children. President Volodymyr Zelensky’s reflections bring to light the immense challenges that persist in their repatriation and the pivotal role of international support in resolving the same.