Twelve more children return to Ukrainian-controlled territory

Andriy Yermak, head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, announced this on Telegram, according to Ukrinform.

Among the rescued children are those who endured severe hardships, including a 16-year-old girl who lost her mother due to medical negligence under occupation, a 17-year-old boy who was issued a summons to the Russian army, children forced into Russification through so-called "educational camps," and an eight-year-old girl whose father was pressured to accept Russian citizenship under threat of losing custody.

Yermak expressed gratitude to NGO Save Ukraine for their dedication and professional efforts in organizing the rescue mission.

"Every rescued child is a victory. We continue to fulfill the president's mission -- to bring all Ukrainian children home," he said.

As of January 28, 2025, a total of 1,037 illegally deported Ukrainian children have been successfully returned from Russia under the Bring Kids Back UA initiative.