Russia 'increasingly obstructing' return of Ukrainian children from occupied territories

Russia has introduced additional restrictions on Ukrainian children trying to leave occupied territories, a charity that helps facilitate their return told the Kyiv Independent.

"Russia has been increasingly obstructing the departure of minors by imposing additional bureaucratic requirements," Oleksandra Dvoretska, head of policy of Bring Kids Back UA, said.

Since the beginning of 2026, Russia has required minors to have biometric documents, and children under 14 who do not yet have a passport must obtain a Russian foreign passport to leave. Previously, other documents, including birth certificates, could be used.

"The Russians are colonizers who seize territory, taking children with them," Dvoretska said.

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