Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared that 2,000 children have successfully returned to Ukraine after being under Russian control since the onset of the war, which began with the invasion in 2022. He emphasized that, despite this achievement, thousands of other Ukrainian children remain 'hostage' in Russia and its occupied territories, underscoring the ongoing crisis that continues to affect innocent lives. Zelensky expressed the gravity of the situation by highlighting that these children suffer daily due to the crimes committed against them.

Moreover, Ukraine has accused Russia of transferring approximately 20,000 Ukrainian children to Russian territory following the invasion. This issue has gained international attention, leading to significant actions such as an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court in March 2023 against Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Commissioner for Children's Rights for the war crime of 'illegal deportation' of children. This legal move aims to hold higher officials accountable for the actions taken during the conflict.

The allegations extend beyond mere abduction, as Kyiv has also accused Moscow of attempting to indoctrinate these children politically. This raises further concerns about human rights abuses and the long-term impact on the affected children and their families. The situation remains complex and urgently calls for international intervention and support to safeguard the rights and futures of these vulnerable children caught in the crossfire of war.