Ukraine’s First Lady Olena Zelenska has highlighted the slow progress in recovering children abducted by Russia during the ongoing conflict, stating that the current rate of return will require 50 years to bring back all missing children. While 1,623 children have been successfully repatriated, the pace of action remains inadequate, according to Zelenska’s remarks.
During an address, Zelenska emphasized the emotional and humanitarian toll of the abduction crisis, calling for increased pressure on Russia to facilitate the swift return of all kidnapped children. She pointed to the need for stronger international coordination and diplomatic efforts to expedite the process. The situation underscores the broader humanitarian challenges faced by Ukraine as the war continues to strain resources and infrastructure.
International advocacy groups have expressed concern over the prolonged abductions, urging governments and organizations to prioritize the safety and repatriation of Ukrainian children. Zelenska’s remarks come amid ongoing discussions about the humanitarian impact of the war, with many calling for greater accountability and support for affected families. The timeline she outlined underscores the urgency of the crisis and the need for a coordinated global response.