Two young adults are rescude from the temporarily occupied territory

As part of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Bring Kids Back UA initiative, specialists from the Ukrainian Child Rights Network, together with the team of the NGO Compass of Dreams, helped 21-year-old Maryna and Artem return from the temporarily occupied territory. The young couple wants to build their future in a free Ukraine.

In 2014, when their hometowns came under Russian occupation, Maryna and Artem were still children. Over the following years, they grew up under occupation: going to school, making plans and trying to maintain a sense of normal life. In 2024, they got married.

Maryna faced psychological pressure because of her pro-Ukrainian views. She was bullied at school because of her beliefs. Later, the threats escalated to physical violence and reporting her views to the occupation authorities.

After finishing school, Artem enrolled in a physical education programme and completed three years of his studies remotely. However, after receiving a military call-up notice from the Russian army, he realised he could no longer postpone leaving. He did not want to become part of the occupying country’s army or fight against his own country.

Their return was made possible through the joint efforts of specialists from the Ukrainian Child Rights Network and the NGO Compass of Dreams, who helped organise a safe departure for the young couple.

Maryna and Artem grew up under occupation, but now they have the opportunity to shape their own future — free from threats, coercion and fear.

A new chapter lies ahead: adapting to life in a free country and building a future together in Ukraine.

Names have been changed for security reasons.