Russia’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, marked International Children’s Day by reiterating Russia’s commitment to child protection and accusing Ukraine of endangering children during the ongoing conflict.
In a statement released on June 1, Zakharova described the protection of children as a key priority of Russia’s domestic and foreign policy, emphasizing the importance of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child as the international standard for safeguarding minors.
She said that despite global progress in child welfare, major challenges remain, including hunger, limited access to healthcare, violence, armed conflicts, and terrorism affecting children worldwide.
Zakharova also criticized what she described as the politicization of children’s issues in international forums. She rejected allegations that Russia forcibly transferred Ukrainian children, calling the claims unfounded and asserting that Russian authorities have worked to reunite children with their families since the start of the conflict.
According to figures cited by the Russian Foreign Ministry, 30 children from 22 families have returned to Russia from Ukraine, while 141 children from 114 families have been reunited with parents or relatives residing in Ukraine and other countries.
The spokesperson further accused Ukrainian authorities of responsibility for civilian casualties, including children, in territories claimed by Russia. She cited several incidents, including attacks in Belgorod, Sevastopol, Khorly, and Starobilsk, alleging that Ukrainian strikes resulted in deaths and injuries among civilians and minors.
Zakharova also claimed that Ukrainian actors have attempted to recruit Russian schoolchildren through social media and messaging platforms, offering money in exchange for information and encouraging participation in activities she described as dangerous.
Ukraine has consistently rejected Russian allegations regarding attacks on civilians and has accused Russia of widespread violations of international law during the conflict. International organizations and governments continue to investigate claims made by both sides regarding the treatment of civilians and children in areas affected by the war.
International Children’s Day is observed annually on June 1 in many countries and is dedicated to promoting the rights, welfare, and protection of children worldwide.