A resolution calling for the return of abducted Ukrainian children before finalizing any peace agreement to end the war against Ukraine.
This is a Senate resolution in the 119th Congress calling for the return of Ukrainian children who were abducted by Russia or transferred to Russian-controlled areas before any final peace agreement to end the war with Ukraine. Introduced May 20, 2025, by a group of senators, the measure condemns Russia’s actions, cites reported figures of abducted children and those who have been returned, and frames the issue as part of a broader effort to protect Ukrainian minors and uphold international law. While it expresses strong policy goals and moral condemnation, the resolution is non-binding and serves as a formal Senate message to the executive branch and international partners, urging that the children be returned prior to finalizing any peace deal.
Key Points
- 1Condemns Russia’s abduction, forcible transfer, and “illegal deportation” of Ukrainian children, highlighting the intent to erase Ukrainian identity and noting public statements by Russian officials involved in the conduct.
- 2Cites statistics: as of April 16, 2025, at least 19,546 confirmed reports of unlawful deportations/forcible transfers, and that Ukraine and partners have recovered 1,274 abducted children; emphasizes ongoing risks to children, including trafficking and exploitation.
- 3References international law and human-rights concerns: asserts violations of the Fourth Geneva Convention (Article 147) and Genocide Convention (Article II(e)); discusses changes to Russian adoption laws and citizenship status for children from occupied Ukrainian territories.
- 4Articulates policy objective: urges that all Ukrainian children abducted by Russia be returned before finalizing any peace agreement, and supports a peaceful and just conclusion to the war.
- 5Note on accountability and sanctions: acknowledges existing sanctions on individuals and entities linked to abduction and human rights abuses, including specific public figures (e.g., Maria Lvova-Belova) and entities; frames accountability as part of the broader goal.