The European Union is set to introduce a new round of sanctions against Russia in response to the deportation and forced relocation of Ukrainian children. This announcement was made by EU foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, as she arrived for a meeting of EU foreign ministers.
Kallas stated, “Today we expect progress on sanctions against those involved in the handling of Ukrainian children deported from Ukraine,” ahead of a high-level meeting of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children scheduled for later in the day in Brussels.
The EU’s Foreign Affairs Council is expected to approve a specific sanctions package targeting the deportation of Ukrainian children. According to an EU official, who requested anonymity, this new package will include around 20 additional sanctions. The EU is coordinating these efforts with G7 partners and anticipates similar measures from the UK and Canada.
“We are imposing sanctions on those working with these children to send a clear message: you are also responsible,” Kallas emphasized.
She also mentioned that the EU has various options and proposals on the table for negotiating with Russia regarding the return of the children. “We need to utilize all international support, as well as assistance from countries that have closer ties with Russia. Today, we will also discuss these projects,” Kallas added, noting the complexity of the issue.
According to Ukrainian authorities, since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion, over 20,000 Ukrainian children have been unlawfully deported or forcibly relocated to Russia or occupied territories. The EU has pointed out that Russia systematically conceals the whereabouts of these children and attempts to erase their Ukrainian identity.
A high-level meeting of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children will take place in Brussels on May 11, jointly organized by the EU, Ukraine, and Canada. The event will feature 72 delegations, including representatives from the United Nations. The coalition comprises 47 countries and international organizations.
The EU plans to implement new sanctions against Russia due to the deportation of Ukrainian children, with a high-level meeting scheduled to discuss their return. Over 20,000 children have reportedly been unlawfully relocated since the invasion began.
Source: Radio Free Europe