Image Credentials: Image Title: Ukraine Credits Melania Trump for Role in Returning Abducted Children Source: (chatgpt.com) Date: May 2026. Attribution: This image was created using AI-generated imagery (chatgpt.com) by Open Chronicle and does not depict a real-world scene.
By Open Chronicle with Agencies
Ukraine has expressed gratitude to U.S. First Lady Melania Trump for her role in helping secure the return of children taken to Russia during the ongoing conflict.
According to Dmytro Lubinets, at least 26 Ukrainian children have been brought back to their families in recent months with her support. Speaking at a “Bring Kids Back” event in Kyiv, Lubinets said the involvement of the U.S. First Lady had strengthened diplomatic efforts and facilitated communication with Moscow.
“She helps us a lot,” Lubinets said, noting that engagement through the White House appeared to increase the likelihood of a response from Russian authorities. He added that his office has been in regular contact with Trump, holding weekly discussions focused on the return of children.
The issue of Ukrainian children transferred to Russia or Russian-controlled territories has been one of the most sensitive humanitarian aspects of the conflict. Kyiv has repeatedly called for their safe return, while international organizations have raised concerns about the scale and legality of such transfers.
Lubinets emphasized that high-level international involvement plays a crucial role in negotiations, particularly in cases where direct communication channels are limited or strained.
While the number of returned children remains relatively small compared to broader estimates, Ukrainian officials see the development as a meaningful step forward and a sign that continued diplomatic pressure can yield results.
The situation remains complex, with ongoing efforts to identify, locate, and repatriate additional children. Ukrainian authorities have pledged to continue working with international partners to ensure that families are reunited and that the issue remains a priority on the global agenda.