France and Canada to Develop Roadmap for the Return of Ukrainian Children Taken by Russia

France and Canada have committed to creating a “roadmap” with concrete steps for the return of Ukrainian children who were forcibly taken by Russia. This initiative will be discussed during the Human Dimension Ministerial Conference, scheduled to take place in Montreal at the end of October.

According to Ukrinform, a joint statement from the French and Canadian foreign ministries, the roadmap aims to address the critical issue of repatriating Ukrainian children affected by Russia’s war. The statement underscores the countries' condemnation of Russia’s aggressive war against Ukraine and their continued support for Ukraine and its people.

The Human Dimension Ministerial Conference on Ukraine’s 10-point peace plan, set for October 30-31, will offer an opportunity to advance these goals, including the development of specific measures for returning Ukrainian children displaced by the conflict.

The foreign ministries of France and Canada called on the international community to remain focused on the plight of Ukrainian children, whose lives and futures have been severely impacted by the war. The statement also condemned the war crimes, killings, and sexual violence against Ukrainian children, as well as attacks on schools and hospitals, and the unlawful forced transfers and deportations of children. Both countries demand that Russia return these children to their families, legal guardians, and communities.

France and Canada reaffirmed their commitment to supporting ongoing efforts and mediation to secure the return of Ukrainian children, under the joint leadership of Canada and Ukraine, and with the backing of France. They pledged to continue assisting in the reception, protection, and provision of essential services, including healthcare and education, to displaced Ukrainian children.

Last October, representatives from Canada proposed the creation of an international coalition to help return Ukrainian children who had been deported by Russia. This coalition now includes Japan and the United States, which have joined the initiative to support the safe return of displaced Ukrainian children.