Sybiha: Russia Proposed Including Deported Ukrainian Children in Exchange Lists – «Unacceptable»
Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha stated that Russia proposed including deported Ukrainian children in exchange lists, which is unacceptable. He emphasized that the return of children is a fundamental element of the peace process. Ukraine has already returned over two thousand minors, but international instruments are ineffective.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Andriy Sybiha stated that Russia proposed including deported Ukrainian children in exchange lists, but this is categorically unacceptable for Ukraine. He spoke at a meeting of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children in Brussels, emphasizing that the return of children is a fundamental element of the peace process, and their freedom is unconditional.
Sybiha stressed that the fate of Ukrainian children will never be part of any compromise. He noted that Ukraine has already managed to return over two thousand minors but criticized international instruments for their ineffectiveness. The Minister drew parallels between the actions of Russians and the crimes of Nazi Germany, citing almost identical quotes from deported children.
He mentioned the Belgian Dossin barracks and the attack on the «Twentieth Convoy» as examples of the fight against forced deportation. Sybiha added that Russians fear this topic, understanding that they are committing a crime and fear justice. The European Commission is allocating 50 million euros to help Ukraine, and Lithuania – over 10 million euros to support initiatives for the return of children. On May 11, the EU Council imposed sanctions against 16 individuals and 7 legal entities responsible for the deportation of Ukrainian minors.