Calling for the return of abducted Ukrainian children before finalizing any peace agreement to end the war against Ukraine.
This is a non-binding House resolution (H. Res. 564) introduced in the 119th Congress that urges the United States to require the return of all Ukrainian children abducted by the Russian government and its forces before any final peace agreement to end the war with Ukraine is concluded. The measure frames Russia’s actions as a deliberate campaign to erase Ukrainian identity and emphasizes alleged legal violations under the Geneva and Genocide Conventions, as well as ongoing human-trafficking concerns. It notes reported numbers of abductions, ongoing efforts to repatriate children, and the intent to push for a peaceful and just resolution to the conflict. While it signals strong policy opposition to Russia’s actions, it does not create new law or authorize funding; it expresses the view of the House and may influence future diplomacy and public messaging.
Key Points
- 1Condemns the Russian Federation’s abduction, forcible transfer, and illegal deportation of Ukrainian children.
- 2Cites findings: as of April 16, 2025, at least 19,546 confirmed reports of unlawful deportations/forced transfers; 1,274 abducted children have been returned so far.
- 3Argues Russia’s actions reflect an intent to erase Ukrainian nationhood and identity; notes changes to Russian adoption laws to facilitate forcible adoptions and citizenship for children from occupied areas.
- 4References international-law violations (Geneva Convention IV, Article 147; Genocide Convention Article II(e)) and ongoing concerns raised by the 2024 State Department Trafficking in Persons Report; mentions sanctions already imposed on individuals/entities linked to these abuses.
- 5Policy directive: urges that all Ukrainian children abducted by the Russian government be returned before finalizing any peace agreement, while affirming support for a peaceful and just resolution to the war.