Thousands of Ukrainian Children Remain Trapped in Russia After Invasion

Thousands of Ukrainian Children Still in Russia After Invasion STRASBOURG, France - September 13, 2025 - Fourteen-year-old Sasha's story brought tears to the eyes of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during her State of the Union address on Wednesday. Sasha was one of thousands of Ukrainian children taken by Russian soldiers in 2022, when Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. According to von der Leyen, Sasha and his mother were separated at a "filtration camp" set up by Russia in occupied Mariupol. The camp's purpose is to subject Ukrainians to ideological screening before transferring them to Russia. Sasha was taken to occupied Donetsk, where he managed to contact his grandmother, Liudmila, who lives in an area under Ukrainian control. She brought him back home, but his mother's fate remains unknown. Von der Leyen emphasized that Sasha's story is not isolated, and thousands of children are still in Russia. "We must acknowledge the trauma inflicted on these children and their families," she said. "Their stories serve as a reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine." Russia denies allegations that it abducted Ukrainian children. However, human rights organizations have documented numerous cases of child abductions and forced transfers to Russia. The invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, when Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered troops into the country. The conflict has resulted in widespread destruction, displacement, and loss of life. According to the United Nations, over 13 million people have been affected by the crisis, including more than 7 million internally displaced persons. The European Union has imposed sanctions on Russia in response to its actions in Ukraine. Von der Leyen called for continued international support for Ukraine and its people. "We must stand together against aggression and protect the rights of civilians," she said. As the conflict continues, concerns about child abductions and forced transfers remain high. Human rights organizations are working to document and address these issues, while governments continue to provide aid and support to affected families. Background: The concept of "filtration camps" was first reported in 2022 by human rights groups. These camps are set up by Russia in occupied territories to subject Ukrainians to ideological screening before transferring them to Russia. The purpose is to identify and detain individuals deemed a threat to Russian interests. Implications: The abduction and forced transfer of children have significant implications for society. Children who experience trauma and separation from their families may suffer long-term psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Governments and international organizations must prioritize the protection and well-being of these children. Current Status: Thousands of Ukrainian children remain in Russia, with many still separated from their families. Efforts to reunite them are ongoing, but progress is slow due to bureaucratic hurdles and lack of cooperation from Russian authorities. Next Developments: The European Union will continue to monitor the situation and provide support to affected families. Human rights organizations will continue to document and address child abductions and forced transfers. Governments must prioritize the protection and well-being of these children, ensuring their safe return to Ukraine and reunification with their families. *Reporting by Dw.*