Russia and Ukraine have agreed on a new reunification of children separated from their families due to the war, after mediation by the First Lady of the United States, Melania Trump, the White House announced this Thursday. "Melania Trump successfully brought Russian and Ukrainian children together with their families today." "While all parties are cooperating and our communication remains firm, I urge Russia and Ukraine to redouble their efforts to ensure the safe return of all children to their families and guardians," the statement said. Last August, U.S. President Donald Trump handed Putin a letter from his wife during their meeting in Alaska, urging him to protect children during the war. In October, Melania Trump announced that her efforts, including direct communications with the Russian president, had made it possible for eight Ukrainian children to return to their families, and in December, another seven children. Ukraine has accused Russia of transferring thousands of children to its territory without the consent of their families or guardians, while Moscow has always denied these allegations, claiming to have protected minors who were in a vulnerable situation in combat zones. "For the third time, the First Lady of the United States has facilitated the return of children to their families after they were separated due to the regional conflict," her office said in a statement, although it did not specify the number of children returned. Russia's Commissioner for Children's Rights, Maria Lvova-Belova, reported via Telegram that it was about the return of five children to their families in Ukraine and one child to his relatives in Russia. Last week, Melania Trump said she remained in contact with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the release of minors, a task she has dedicated herself to in recent months.
