Mr. Speaker, this Tuesday, the Prime Minister and the President of Ukraine co-chaired the high-level meeting of the international coalition for the return of Ukrainian children, which was held during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Thousands of Ukrainian children are victims of Russia’s crimes, where some of the most vulnerable populations are being targeted. Russia first abducted and deported them, and now it seeks to erase their culture, identity and their bond with family.
As a parent and grandparent and a child of Ukrainian refugees, I cannot imagine the horror these families are experiencing. We have to ensure they are returned as soon possible.
Canada is intensifying its work, together with Ukraine, our European partners and the U.S., to secure the immediate return of Ukrainian children. I thank the Prime Minister for his leadership in advancing peace. We should not and cannot rest until Ukraine’s children are home.