First Lady Melania Trump revealed a secret accord with Russian President Vladimir Putin to repatriate Ukrainian children displaced by the war, according to a White House press conference. The agreement, disclosed during a brief statement on Friday, involves the return of eight children to their families within 24 hours, with plans for additional reunifications.
Mrs. Trump described backchannel communications with Putin, stating that the Russian leader responded to her August message about the children. She emphasized sustained dialogue between both sides over the past three months, asserting that “plans are already underway to reunify more children in the immediate future.” The First Lady also highlighted efforts to address Ukrainian minors now residing in Russia, noting Russia’s commitment to their return.
The announcement focused on humanitarian efforts, with Melania Trump expressing hope for broader peace but offering no details on broader diplomatic developments. No mention of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy or military leadership was included in the statement.
