Elina Svitolina, the world-famous Ukrainian tennis player and ambassador of the Bring Kids Back UA initiative, met with children who were recently returned from Russian deportation. This heartwarming meeting marked another step in Ukraine's ongoing efforts to rescue and bring back Ukrainian children who were forcibly displaced by Russia.
Elina was deeply moved by the children’s stories. These brave children shared their experiences of pain, loss, and unimaginable challenges — yet, they also conveyed stories of resilience and incredible inner strength. As Elina listened to their stories, she expressed her commitment to raising global awareness of their plight.
"Hearing children's stories — how they were torn from their homes by Russian forces — moved me deeply. These children’s optimism, despite everything they have been through, is truly inspiring. Their voices need to be heard around the world," Svitolina shared after the meeting.
Thanks to the Bring Kids Back UA initiative and the collective efforts of Ukraine and its international partners, these children are now safe in their homeland. However, thousands of Ukrainian children remain in Russian captivity, separated from their families and deprived of their childhood.
As an ambassador for Bring Kids Back UA, Elina emphasized the importance of amplifying these children’s voices and ensuring the world knows the truth about Russia’s war crimes. She called on the global community to continue supporting Ukraine’s efforts to rescue, rehabilitate, and reunite all abducted Ukrainian children with their families.