Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister on Abducted Children and Peace Talks

Core Element of Peace Talks: Return of Abducted Children

• 📌 The unconditional return of abducted Ukrainian children is a non-negotiable core element for Ukraine in any peace talks or negotiations.
• 💡 This issue is a top priority for Ukraine's president and its delegation, emphasizing the breach of international law by Russia.

Scale of the Crisis and Russian Actions

• 💔 Russia has deported at least 20,000 Ukrainian children, with an additional 1.6 million on temporarily occupied territories.
• 🇷🇺 On occupied territories, Russia attempts to erase Ukrainian identity and impose Russian documents.
• ⚠️ Children separated from families are deported to Russia, where they face war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide.

International Efforts and Support

• 🤝 Ukraine has established an international coalition for the return of Ukrainian children, with strong support from the UK.
• 🌍 The initiative "Bring Kids Back" involves both governmental and non-governmental sectors to lobby for the children's return and exert pressure on Russia.
• ⚖️ The International Criminal Court has charged President Putin for the war crime of unlawful deportation of children, highlighting the legal and moral imperative for their return.

Challenges and Future Security

• 🧠 Russia's propaganda and efforts to erase children's identities make their reintegration and rehabilitation challenging.
• 🇪🇺 Transatlantic and European unity are crucial for Ukraine's security and for upholding international law, democracy, and values.
• 🛡️ Ukraine emphasizes the need for increased defense capabilities, military support, and security guarantees, potentially through NATO membership, to deter future aggression.

Sanctions and Justice

• 🚫 Sanctions on Russia should not be lifted or softened as long as Russia violates Ukraine's territorial integrity and continues aggression.
• ⚖️ The international community must punish aggressors and not reward aggression to ensure justice and prevent future conflicts.