Ukraine returns 2,058 deported children with support from 38 countries – Ombudsman's Office

Ukraine has successfully returned 2,058 deported children, with active support from 38 countries as well as the Council of Europe and the European Union.

According to Ukrinform, the Secretariat of the Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights said this in response to an inquiry from Ukrinform.

"The President of Ukraine's Bring Kids Back UA initiative continues to unite a large number of countries around the world to facilitate the return of deported children. As of February-March 2026, 38 countries, along with the Council of Europe and the European Union, are actively supporting the effort. Thanks to this strategic initiative, as of March 25, 2026, 2,058 children have been returned to Ukraine," the statement said.

The Secretariat noted that Ukraine continues to receive international support in efforts to return prisoners of war and unlawfully deported or forcibly displaced persons, including children. This support includes joint humanitarian missions, diplomatic pressure, and mediation by partner countries in negotiations.

It also highlighted the role of the United States – both government institutions (the administration and Congress), as well as the First Lady, human rights organizations, and civil society – in consistently supporting efforts to return deported Ukrainian children. With the involvement of the U.S. First Lady, three recent groups of children (19 in total) were brought back to Ukraine.

The Ombudsman's Office stressed that it continues to call on international partners to increase pressure on Russia to ensure the return of Ukrainian prisoners of war and deported or forcibly transferred children. It also urges countries to act as mediators and join international platforms dedicated to returning Ukrainian captives and deported children.

Photo: Bring Kids Back UA