Ukraine returns 13 children from Russian occupied territories

The humanitarian organization Save Ukraine returned 13 children and teenagers from Russian-occupied territories in Ukraine over the past week.

Mykola Kuleba, the founder of Save Ukraine, stated that the children faced psychological pressure, threats, and life-threatening conditions while under occupation. The operation functioned under the Bring Kids Back UA initiative, which is supported by President Volodymyr Zelensky. The rescued children faced various forms of forced indoctrination and military recruitment.

For example, 13-year-old Andrii was forced into a Russian-run school where he had to take ideological tests and draw Russian soldiers. Another teenager, 18-year-old Luka, faced a military draft notice despite having health problems after Russian troops seized his home. A 13-year-old girl named Nina was also rescued after her parents faced threats of violence for refusing to send her to a school where students were required to wear St. George ribbons.

The children are currently receiving rehabilitation, psychological support, and help with restoring their documents at Save Ukraine's Hope and Recovery centers. Save Ukraine reports that it has helped rescue more than 1,800 children from Russia and occupied areas to date. This effort occurs as Russia continues to use schools in occupied territories to militarize and indoctrinate Ukrainian children.