War cynically destroys the space of childhood safety. Every day, the number of children killed by Russian shelling grows. On this day of mourning, June 4, we honor the memory of the children whose lives were cut short due to the armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine.
In bomb shelters, young Ukrainians keep adult-like diaries that begin with the word “war” and contain harrowing accounts of what they have lived through. They draw burning houses, exploding shells, and write pleas for help with chalk on the pavement. Russia is deliberately and systematically committing war crimes against children, depriving them of a carefree childhood now marked by the sound of sirens, explosions, fear of losing their homes and loved ones.
According to the Children of War platform, since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion, 631 children have been killed and more than 1,970 injured in Ukraine. Nearly 20,000 children have been abducted and deported beyond Ukraine’s borders. This fact was acknowledged by the Russian delegation during negotiations in Istanbul on June 2. The fate of 2,244 Ukrainian children remains unknown. Many have endured severe trauma, including sexual violence. Behind every number is a scarred young life, a broken future, and the unspeakable grief of families.
Today, more than ever, it is crucial to provide children with support, psychological protection, and opportunities for development – to create an environment that restores their memories of home, family, friends, and a safe childhood. It is this generation that will rebuild Ukraine and shape its future.
The National Council has invested significant effort in fostering a safe and high-quality media environment for children for years. We are deeply grateful to psychologists, media professionals, public servants, experts, and specialists who work every day to produce content that is child-friendly and supportive.
Our highest respect and gratitude go to the defenders of Ukraine who protect our borders and safeguard the right of Ukrainian children to live without fear – to have a future.
Our children must – and will – live in a peaceful Ukraine. The gravity of the war crimes committed by Russia against Ukrainian children has no statute of limitations. Accountability will come.
Eternal memory to every child innocently killed by Russia.
