Holy See Calls for Immediate Return of Ukrainian Children and Renewed Commitment to Peace
The Holy See has reiterated its position that Ukrainian children taken to Russia must be reunited with their families without delay, describing the issue as a matter of fundamental justice that cannot be overshadowed by political interests. In a declaration delivered during an Emergency Special Session of the United Nations General Assembly, the Permanent Observer Mission emphasized that its humanitarian engagement will continue through multiple diplomatic channels, including the ongoing work of Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, the Special Envoy of the Holy Father for humanitarian issues in Ukraine. The Mission encouraged all parties involved in the conflict, as well as the wider international community, to intensify efforts aimed at securing the return of the children and ensuring the release of prisoners of war. The statement sought to refocus global attention on the human cost of the conflict by highlighting the vulnerability of children and the urgency of resolving cases involving forced transfers and family separation.
The declaration underscored the devastating effects of the prolonged war, referencing the destruction of communities, the disruption of daily life and the psychological harm experienced by children growing up in conditions marked by instability and fear. The Holy See called for an immediate ceasefire as the only path toward restoring conditions that allow for serious and courageous dialogue. Such dialogue, it stated, must not be postponed to an unspecified future but must begin with a recognition that the continuation of violence only deepens suffering and prolongs divisions. The appeal reflected a consistent theme in Vatican diplomacy, which emphasizes reconciliation, the protection of human dignity and the belief that peace building requires sustained commitment rather than episodic engagement. It also warned that each day without progress diminishes humanity’s collective sense of responsibility and increases the long term consequences of war.
The General Assembly, responding to mounting international concern, adopted a non binding resolution asking Russia to guarantee the immediate, safe and unconditional return of Ukrainian children who were forcibly transferred or deported. The resolution, supported by ninety one member states, also urged Moscow to cease practices that involve separation from families, changes to personal status, adoption procedures, or any form of ideological influence that risks further alienating children from their communities. The Holy See noted growing anxiety among diplomats and humanitarian organizations regarding the fate of children separated from their families since twenty fourteen, including those relocated within occupied regions and those taken into Russian territory. By urging states to reject passivity and to support initiatives that foster genuine negotiations, the Holy See framed the return of children as a benchmark for responsible international action. It highlighted that sustainable peace depends not only on political agreements but also on restoring the rights and dignity of those most affected by conflict.
