61th session of Human Rights Council. Item 3 Interactive Dialogue with Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict
Statement by the Republic of Lithuania on behalf of the Lublin Triangle
Thank you, Mr President,
I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Lublin Triangle.
The global rise in grave violations against children in armed conflict is deeply alarming. We strongly support Special Representative’s mandate to document these violations and to advance protection and relief for affected children.
The situation in Ukraine is a stark and tragic example of this trend. Ukrainian children are being killed, maimed, and deliberate attacks against schools persist as Russia continues its illegal war of aggression against Ukraine for the fifth consecutive year.
In addition, Russia, with the support of Belarus, has been deporting Ukrainian children. Already up to 20,000 children have been forcibly transferred. As confirmed by the OHCHR, Ukrainian children are also subjected to indoctrination and militarisation, with the genocidal aim to erase their national identity.
Since 2023, for the first time, a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council has been listed among parties responsible for grave violations.
Clearly, impunity enables Russia to continue these policies. This must be stopped.
Madam Special Representative,
In accordance with the UN General Assembly resolution “Return of Ukrainian Children” ((A/RES/ES-11/9), adopted on 3 December 2025), could you please inform us of your next steps with regard to the engagement of relevant mechanisms and efforts aimed at facilitating the return of Ukrainian children to their homes?
I thank you.
