The UN General Assembly has officially called for Russia to return all Ukrainian children who have been deported or forcibly transferred since the onset of the conflict. This resolution was adopted on September 27, 2023, with a significant majority of 91 votes in favor, 12 against, and 57 abstentions, fulfilling the two-thirds majority requirement under Article 18 of the UN Charter.
This resolution explicitly demands that Russia “ensure the immediate, safe and unconditional return of all Ukrainian children who have been forcibly transferred or deported.” During an emergency special session, delegates emphasized the urgency of the situation and urged Russia to halt any similar practices.
International Response and Legal Context
Annalena Baerbock, the President of the General Assembly, highlighted the gravity of the issue, stating, “What we are witnessing therefore is not merely a tragedy of some children, but a violation of international law.” The resolution reflects international concern over the treatment of vulnerable populations amidst ongoing conflict.
Russia’s response to the resolution was one of strong opposition. Ambassador Maria Zabolotskaya asserted that each vote in favor of the resolution “is support for lies, war and confrontation,” arguing that it undermines current peace efforts. This stark division illustrates the ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding the conflict.
According to a report from the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine, which was presented in 2023, at least 31 Ukrainian children were transferred to Russian territory in May 2022, actions that have been classified as war crimes. The report underscores the complexities involved in understanding the full extent of these transfers, as discrepancies exist between data provided by the Russian Federation and Ukraine.
In March 2023, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for President Vladimir Putin, citing reasonable grounds to believe he was responsible for the unlawful deportation and transfer of children. This legal framework is crucial in addressing the violations of international law occurring in the context of this conflict.
Broader Implications and Historical Context
In May 2025, the European Parliament also took a stance on this issue by adopting a resolution advocating for the return of Ukrainian children forcibly taken by Russia. Delegates described these actions as part of a “genocidal strategy to erase Ukrainian identity.” Such characterizations highlight the severity of the situation and the international community’s awareness of the ongoing human rights violations.
The forcible transfer and deportation of children violate the provisions of the Fourth Geneva Convention, which protects civilian persons during wartime. Acts of forced transfer can qualify as war crimes under international law, emphasizing the legal ramifications of these actions.
As the conflict continues, the UN has condemned various military actions, including a large-scale missile strike by Russia against Ukraine in September 2025. This attack was characterized as a significant escalation since the invasion began in 2022. The UN has also expressed concern over the use of drones, notably when a strike targeted a humanitarian convoy delivering aid to southern Ukraine in October.
The call for the return of Ukrainian children is not merely a political statement; it represents a collective demand for accountability and adherence to international law. The growing body of evidence and the international community’s response highlight a commitment to protecting the rights of the most vulnerable amidst the turmoil of war.
As discussions around this resolution continue, the situation remains fluid, with potential implications for future diplomatic efforts and humanitarian initiatives aimed at alleviating the suffering of those affected by the conflict.
