In a brief White House statement, First Lady Melania Trump announced that eight Ukrainian children separated from their families during the Russia-Ukraine war had been reunited within the past 24 hours. She revealed that this outcome stemmed from her personal letter to President Putin last year, which established a direct communication channel.

Melania stated that representatives from both sides held several secret meetings, during which Russia provided complete information on the children’s placement, health, and identity, all verified by the U.S. side. The cooperation focused purely on humanitarian grounds and was not politically driven. “Trafficked children know no borders, no flags,” she said — a line that became the most touching moment of the day.

This operation not only reunited eight families but also symbolized a breakthrough in “soft diplomacy” — when politicians are caught in confrontation, a mother’s sincerity can advance peace. Melania emphasized that her mission is “to make sure every child can return home safely” and that peace should begin with children.

This was not a political show, but a human effort. She proved through action that true strength sometimes comes from a mother’s heart.

First Lady Melania Trump: Good morning.

Trafficked children know no borders, no flags. We must create a future for our children — one that is full of potential, safe, and full of dreams, not a world threatened by war.
Since President Putin received my letter last August and replied in writing, expressing his willingness to communicate directly with me, we have established an open channel to discuss the living and welfare conditions of Ukrainian children in Russia.

Over the past few months, both sides have held multiple confidential meetings based on goodwill and cooperation. We have agreed to collaborate so that all those affected by the war — especially children and their families — receive help.

My representatives have been working with President Putin’s team to ensure the safety and reunification of children and their families between Russia and Ukraine. In fact, within the past 24 hours, eight children have been reunited with their families.

Because of the war in Ukraine, every child is living amid turmoil. Among these eight children, three were separated from their parents and forced to move to the Russian Federation, while the other five were displaced due to conflict and border changes. One of them, a young girl, has now returned to her family from Ukraine.

In recent months, I have gained deeper insight into this matter. The Russian side has shown willingness to reveal the truth, reflect on the situation, and provide personal data, photos, and social, medical, and psychological service information of the reunited children.

I have also received a detailed report confirming the identity and circumstances of these eight children. The U.S. government has verified the authenticity of these documents. Notably, this report was co-authored by Fiona Radha, Commissioner for Children’s Affairs of Ukraine, and the Commissioner for Human Rights and Children’s Rights of the Russian Presidential Office.

As First Lady, this represents an important step for me. It is built upon shared goals and long-term impact. My mission is twofold — to promote transparency and free flow of information, ensuring the health and rights of children affected by war; and to facilitate reunification of children with their families, until every child can return home.

Additionally, I am concerned about those young people who were displaced during the war and have now reached adulthood and are living in Russia. Considering that their safe return requires international coordination, Russia has agreed to assist in the repatriation of those aged 18 and above.

This work is ongoing. Programs to help more children return to school are also underway. I hope peace will come soon — starting with our children. Thank you.