The return of Ukrainian children and adolescents from the Novopetrivka special school in Mykolaiv region to Ukraine marks a significant step in the repatriation of those deported during the early stages of the full-scale invasion in 2022. The initiative, launched by President Volodymyr Zelensky’s office under the ‘Bring Kids Back UA’ program, is spearheaded by Andriy Yermak, Head of the President’s Office.
Yermak announced the repatriation through a Telegram channel update, emphasizing the humanitarian importance of the move. The children, who were forcibly taken to Russia, are now returning to their families and schools in Ukraine. This development is part of a broader international effort to address the humanitarian crisis caused by the conflict, with various diplomatic channels working to secure the release of Ukrainian citizens detained or displaced by the war.
While the repatriation is a positive step, the broader issue of the war’s impact on civilians remains a critical concern. The Ukrainian government and its allies are under pressure to ensure the safe return of all deported individuals and to hold those responsible accountable for the atrocities committed. The international community has also called for continued support for Ukraine, including humanitarian aid and sanctions against Russian entities involved in the conflict.