Seven More Ukrainian Teenagers Returned from Temporarily Occupied Territories

In a recent announcement via Telegram, Ukraine's Human Rights Commissioner Dmytro Lubinets revealed the return of seven more Ukrainian teenagers from temporarily occupied territories. This development is a significant step in the humanitarian initiatives of Ukraine aimed at bringing back children who have found themselves in dire circumstances due to the ongoing conflict.

Lubinets expressed gratitude to the First Lady of the United States, Melania Trump, for her support in this humanitarian matter. He emphasized that the return of children is a priority for Ukraine and that each case is unique, requiring a tailored approach.

Among those returned is a 13-year-old boy who has faced immense loss at such a young age. He lost his father and subsequently his mother, leaving him alone in the temporarily occupied territory of the Kherson region. Due to the absence of relatives, the boy was placed in the Novokyivsk Social Rehabilitation Center for minors. Now, he is safe and will be able to reunite with his sister, marking an important step in restoring their family unity.

Additionally, two brothers, aged 13 and 16, were also returned. After the death of their parents, they were under the temporary guardianship of a cousin. This decision was made to prevent their separation and placement in a specialized institution. Despite the boys clearly expressing their desire to reunite with their sister in Ukrainian-controlled territory, representatives from the child services in the temporarily occupied territories and the police exerted psychological pressure on them in an attempt to change their decision. Now, the brothers will be able to stay under their sister's guardianship, finally safe and protected from further trauma.

Furthermore, a 14-year-old boy was reunited with his mother, whom he had not seen for over four years. This meeting was an emotional moment for both, as the long separation left a deep mark on their hearts.

According to Lubinets, since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a total of 2,070 children have been successfully returned home. However, thousands of Ukrainian children still await their return. The Commissioner emphasized that Ukraine will continue its fight until all children who are in danger are brought back home.

The Ombudsman's office actively supports every stage of the children's return process, starting from contacting relatives to personal meetings at the border. This process requires significant attention and effort, as each child has their own needs and story.

It is worth noting that the First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, recently held meetings with officials from the U.S. State Department, where the main topic of discussion was a new comprehensive program worth $25 million. This program aims to assist in the return of Ukrainian children who have become victims of the war.

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