In June, more than 13 Ukrainian children were rescued from Russia and the temporarily occupied territories.
As of the end of June 2025, Ukraine has successfully returned 1,366 children, including 185 this year.
During peace negotiations in Istanbul, Ukraine officially handed Russia an initial list of 339 abducted children. Instead of committing to their unconditional return, Russia acknowledged only five cases and attempted to negotiate their release, which violates international law.
In response to these ongoing crimes, Ukraine has criminalised the deportation of children, their forced militarisation, and the obstruction of their return. Sanctions were also imposed on individuals involved in abductions and illegal adoptions.
At the same time, more than 50,000 Ukrainian children remain in so-called re-education camps in Russia. There, they are subjected to propaganda, military drills, and efforts to erase their Ukrainian identity.
The international community has responded with growing political support, including resolutions, diplomatic statements, and legislative initiatives in countries like Canada, Austria, and the United States.