Restoring Childhood and Humanity: Advancing Peace in Ukraine Through the Return of Ukrainian Children
Co-chairs of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, President Zelenskyy,
Prime Minister Carney,
Excellencies,
Thank you for hosting this important meeting.
Let me make one thing very clear from the outset: Austria supports a comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine, based on the UN Charter and international law.
Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified war of aggression has caused three years of terrible destruction, deep suffering and great despair. Millions have been displaced, and nearly
100.000 Ukrainians forced to flee have found refuge in Austria – among them many children.
Austria remains one of the main contributors of humanitarian and financial aid to Ukraine and is committed to continuing support for Ukraine and its neighboring states.
As a member of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, Austria stands in solidarity with Ukrainian children. In addition, Austria works directly with the “Bring Kids Back initiative”, reinforcing our own mediation efforts to return children to Ukraine and their families.
We call for the immediate release of all children who were taken from their families by force. This is a grave breach of international law and a violation of their human rights, safety and dignity.
We must continue to work together to reunite these children with their families and communities in Ukraine.
Their return is not only a moral obligation – it is integral to achieving lasting peace.
President Zelenskyy,
Rest reassured, Austria is always willing to provide a platform for dialogue on ending Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine.
You can count on Austria to stand by international law, the Charter of the UN and with Ukraine!
Thank you.
(New York, September 23, 2025, 11:30 a.m.)