Demand Justice and Protection for Ukrainian Children and a Fair Peace Process

The ongoing war in Ukraine has caused immense suffering, with over 35,000 Ukrainian children reportedly abducted and taken to Russia or Russian-occupied territories. As diplomatic efforts intensify, including proposed meetings between US, Ukrainian, and Russian leaders, we must insist that human rights and justice are at the center of any peace process.

We are deeply concerned by Russia's continued rejection of ceasefire demands and its insistence on territorial concessions and demilitarization of Ukraine. Any agreement that undermines Ukraine's sovereignty or ignores the plight of abducted children cannot be considered just or lasting.

We call on all negotiating parties to:

• Make the immediate and unconditional return of all abducted Ukrainian children a non-negotiable condition of any peace agreement.
• Reject any settlement that forces Ukraine to give up its territory or military autonomy.
• Ensure that negotiations are transparent and include the voices of Ukrainian civil society and victims of the conflict.
• Hold accountable those responsible for war crimes, including the abduction and forced relocation of children.

The world is watching. We demand a peace process that prioritizes justice, human rights, and the self-determination of the Ukrainian people.