Hundreds of Ukrainian children were evacuated to Italy. Kyiv is now battling to get them back (opens original article in a new tab)

Ukrainian children evacuated to Italy during the war face legal challenges in returning home, with some adopted by Italian families, as Kyiv seeks their return amid concerns over long-term separation and demographic impacts.

• Ukrainian children evacuated to Italy during the war face legal barriers to returning home, with some adopted by Italian families.
• Ukrainian authorities argue evacuations were temporary and seek children's return, citing demographic concerns and stable conditions in parts of Ukraine.
• Italian courts have prevented the return of over 300 Ukrainian children, with legal processes varying per child and involving complex guardianship issues.
• Ukrainian ombudsman accuses Italy of non-cooperation, comparing the situation to alleged illegal deportations to Russia, while Italy maintains children were evacuated for safety.