In January 2026, Ukraine rescued 37 children, bringing the total number of returned children to 1,980.

Among the key developments in January 2026:

🔹 Russian attacks on Ukraine’s civilian and energy infrastructure intensified during winter, leaving millions of people without electricity, heating, and water. Children were among the most affected, facing disruptions to education, healthcare, and essential services. The United Nations and the Council of Europe condemned the attacks and called for accountability, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.

🔹 On January 7, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Riley M. Barnes visited Kyiv. During meetings with Ukrainian officials, civil society representatives, and the Bring Kids Back UA initiative, discussions focused on international efforts to protect Ukrainian children affected by the war and on strengthening cooperation within the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children.

🔹 At the World Economic Forum in Davos, two high-level discussions at Ukraine House spotlighted the systematic abduction, forced re-education, and militarization of Ukrainian children. The panels brought together policymakers, human rights experts, and civil society leaders to emphasize the urgent need for coordinated international action to bring Ukrainian children home.

🔹 New Russian regulations introduced additional barriers to the return of children from territories under Russian control. As of January 20, children under the age of 14 are required to obtain international passports, further complicating family reunification and safe return efforts.

🔹 A Latvian parliamentary delegation visited Ukraine, reaffirming Latvia’s commitment as a member of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children. Discussions focused on accountability for child abduction, as well as rehabilitation and psychosocial support for returned children.

🔹 Ukraine also strengthened cooperation with the United Nations on children and armed conflict, focusing on documenting grave violations of children’s rights and improving coordination on protection, rehabilitation, and reintegration efforts.

An estimated 1.6 million Ukrainian children remain under control of the Russian Federation.

#BringKidsBack #TrackingTheTaken