Three young adults were successfully brought back from the temporarily occupied territory

As part of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Bring Kids Back UA initiative, the Ukrainian Child Rights Network and the NGO Compass of Dreams have jointly helped three more young people return to Ukrainian-controlled territory.

🟠 Oleksii left together with his mother. The family had been living in isolation, as any attempt to leave the occupied territory could put them in danger. In August, they had already tried to leave, but were stopped during an inspection and threatened. After that, the family was forced to hide for several months.

Eventually, the team managed to find an alternative route. This time, their departure was successful. Oleksii and his mother are now on their way to reunite with their relatives.

🟠 Olha lived with her mother. After the occupation, she almost stopped communicating with others and became increasingly withdrawn. The constant exposure to Russian propaganda and life under occupation became increasingly difficult for her.

Olha had long dreamed of leaving, but her mother’s consent was needed. Eventually, her mother supported her daughter's decision. Olha is now on her way to stay with a friend. If necessary, the team will help her find alternative accommodation.

🟠 Stepan decided to leave after learning from his sister, Kseniia, that returning to Ukraine was indeed possible. Kseniia had previously received assistance in leaving from specialists of the Ukrainian Child Rights Network and Compass of Dreams.

His greatest concern was the risk of forced conscription during the journey. He initially planned to travel with a friend, but the latter was not yet ready to leave. Stepan therefore set out on his own. He is now on his way to reunite with his sister. The next step will be restoring his documents, which the team will also help him with.

Thanks to the joint efforts of specialists from the Ukrainian Child Rights Network and the NGO Compass of Dreams, all three are now in Ukrainian-controlled territory. The teams remain in contact with them and will continue to provide support and assistance in addressing any challenges that arise after their return.

*Names have been changed for security reasons.