Kidnapped Children: Austria Promises Help to Ukraine
Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger (NEOS) met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha in Vienna on Monday. The two ministers signed a declaration of intent and a joint communiqué. The focus is on political cooperation, especially in the area of reconstruction, as well as supporting Ukraine in the repatriation of its children forcibly abducted by Russia.
Ukraine can "count on our support in the repatriation of children forcibly abducted by Russia," said Meinl-Reisinger, according to a statement from the Foreign Ministry. The ministry stated that Austria is committed to holding those responsible accountable. Austria supports Ukraine with humanitarian aid, psychosocial care, educational projects, and the reconstruction of safe infrastructure. "Because every child brought back needs an environment where they can be a child again," it said.
Russians allegedly abducted thousands of children from Ukraine
Since the beginning of the war almost two years ago, thousands of children from Ukraine are said to have been abducted by the Russians. The International Criminal Court (ICC) based in The Hague has already launched investigations and issued international arrest warrants against Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russian Commissioner for Children's Rights, Maria Lvova-Belova.
Austria also commits to continuing its participation in the EU civilian advisory mission EUAM, the statement continued. Austria supports Ukraine particularly in the investigation of war crimes, in strengthening the rule of law and the penal system, as well as in humanitarian demining. "Not least, Austria also offers itself as a venue for negotiations in connection with the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine in the future."
Austria mobilized aid
Meinl-Reisinger emphasized: "Austria stands unwaveringly by Ukraine's side and will continue to support the people in Ukraine, who are defending their sovereignty, freedom, and security with great courage." The goal is a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace. This also concerns the security interests of Austrians. "Because a stable, secure, and democratic Europe is also central for Austria."
According to the Foreign Ministry, Austria has mobilized more than approximately 320 million euros in bilateral state financial and humanitarian aid for Ukraine and its particularly affected neighboring countries since the beginning of the Russian war of aggression. This is in addition to support from Austrian federal states, private initiatives, and Austrian companies, as well as further contributions that Ukraine receives through Austria's share of EU support.
(APA/Red)
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