Slovakia has officially joined the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children illegally deported or forcibly transferred by Russia. The country became the 53rd participant of the alliance, which works towards returning children to Ukraine and reuniting families.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine reported this on November 5, publishing a statement by the head of the department, Andrii Sybiha.
Sybiha thanked Slovakia for joining the coalition and emphasized that the return of Ukrainian children must not be postponed until the end of the war.
According to the minister, every day spent away from their homeland deprives deported children of a part of their childhood that cannot be restored. Therefore, international efforts for their return must continue regardless of negotiations for a cessation of hostilities.
The head of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry stressed that the expansion of the coalition strengthens joint diplomatic efforts and demonstrates the international community's rejection of the illegal deportation and forcible transfer of children.
Sybiha also stated that Ukrainian children must not become a subject of political bargaining, and their return must be an obligatory part of any efforts to achieve a just peace.
According to him, all those involved in the illegal deportation and forcible transfer of children must be held accountable. Ukraine will continue cooperation with international partners until all children are returned home.
Meanwhile, Slovakia's official accession took place as early as November 2. That day, State Secretary of the Slovak Foreign Ministry Marek Eštok handed over a diplomatic note on the country's joining the coalition to the ambassadors of Ukraine and Canada.
As the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Slovakia reported, the decision was made following relevant conclusions of the European Council of October 15–16, 2026, calling for the safe and unconditional return of illegally transferred Ukrainian children.
Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár noted that Bratislava had previously participated in the work of the coalition at the level of observers and experts.
According to the Slovak Foreign Ministry, the country also allocated 300,000 euros for the reconstruction of six shelters in schools and kindergartens in Chernihiv and Sumy regions, organized recreational stays for 195 children of Ukrainian rescuers and police officers. Almost 17,000 Ukrainian children are integrated into Slovakia's education system.
The International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children was established on February 2, 2024, at the initiative of Ukraine and Canada. Its main tasks are the safe return of illegally deported and forcibly transferred children, their reintegration and rehabilitation.
After Slovakia's accession, the alliance comprises 53 participants, including three international organizations — the European Union, the Council of Europe, and the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly. Ukraine and Canada remain co-chairs of the coalition.
