Calling for the return of abducted Ukrainian children before finalizing any peace agreement to end the war against Ukraine.
Impact
The resolution aims to bring international attention to the plight of abducted children and encourages the U.S. government to press for their return before any peace agreement is finalized to end the conflict with Russia. This initiative also seeks to reinforce the commitment of international law concerning the protection of civilians during wartime, particularly focusing on the rights of children, and signals strong condemnation of acts that could be classified as genocide against the Ukrainian nation.
Summary
House Resolution 564 calls for the return of Ukrainian children who have been abducted and forcibly transferred to Russia or its occupied territories during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The resolution emphasizes the increasing reports of unlawful deportations of Ukrainian children, with over 19,546 cases recorded by Ukrainian authorities as of April 2025. It highlights that the unlawful actions taken by Russia not only violate international laws but also threaten the identity and well-being of these children.
Contention
Although the resolution intends to uphold human rights and international norms, it may face contention from some quarters that view it as a step towards increasing tensions with the Russian government over child welfare issues. Detractors may argue about the effectiveness of resolutions in effecting real change, while supporters tout its necessity to bring awareness and compel actions against human rights violations. Overall, the resolution marks a significant political stance by the United States regarding the ongoing situation in Ukraine.
Commemorating the heroic sacrifices of the Ukrainian people 2 years after Russia's illegal and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, and recognizing the terrible cost of Russia's war of aggression.
Commending the International Criminal Court's issuance of an arrest warrant for Vladimir Putin, President of the Russian Federation, and Maria Lvova-Belova, Commissioner for Children's Rights in the Office of the President of the Russian Federation, for two war crimes related to the forcible deportation of Ukrainian children from occupied areas of Ukraine to the Russian Federation.
Proclaiming that it is United States policy to allow the Government of Ukraine to use United States weapons against military assets inside of the Russian Federation.
A resolution condemning the deportation of children from Ukraine to the Russian Federation and the forcible transfer of children within territories of Ukraine that are temporarily occupied by Russian forces.
A resolution condemning the deportation of children from Ukraine to the Russian Federation and the forcible transfer of children within territories of Ukraine that are temporarily occupied by Russian forces.
Urging the Government of Ukraine to review and modify its decision to suspend adoption by foreign nationals with a view to resuming such adoptions, particularly in cases where the mutual concerns of the Governments of Ukraine and of the United States can be substantially addressed.
Declares support for Ukraine and Ukrainian refugees residing in NJ; expresses solidarity with its citizens; urges federal government to continue providing support for Ukraine and funds for refugee programs.