Ukrainian Football Icon Calls for Global Aid to Rescue Children Affected by Russia’s Actions

Ahead of Ukraine’s match against Belgium at Euro 2024, Andriy Shevchenko, President of the Ukrainian Football Association, has called for global support of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s “Bring Kids Back UA” initiative. This initiative aims to repatriate Ukrainian children who have been unlawfully deported by Russia.

Shevchenko highlighted the urgency of the situation, emphasizing that approximately 20,000 Ukrainian children have been forcibly taken from their homes. Despite efforts that have successfully brought 388 children back to Ukraine, many remain in Russian captivity.

President of the Ukrainian Football Association stating, "20,000 children are enough to fill hundreds of football teams. It is also the number of Ukrainian kids that Russia has stolen."

The “Bring Kids Back UA” project seeks to raise awareness of this humanitarian crisis worldwide and to facilitate the safe return and reintegration of these children into their communities. It includes initiatives such as the Children Rights Protection Centre, the “Stolen Voices” information campaign, and international cooperation through the International Coalition of Countries for the Return of Ukrainian Children.

During Euro 2024, Ukrainian footballers and their supporters have actively participated in activities to support the initiative. Recently, fans marched in Düsseldorf, and players engaged in a digital flash mob on Instagram, underscoring their solidarity with the cause.