First Lady takes part in opening of Kharkiv monument in honor of children victims of Russian war

On the occasion of the International Day of Innocent Children - Victims of Aggression, a monument was opened in Kharkiv in honor of Ukrainian children who died as a result of Russia’s armed aggression.

The president's spouse, Olena Zelenska, announced this on Telegram, Ukrinform reports.

"A boy and a girl fly over the explosion spreading their wings... Such a monument by sculptor Mykhailo Yatchenko to the children who died as a result of Russia’s armed aggression now stands in Kharkiv. It is difficult to open monuments to the dead. Especially if these victims are children. After all, children should have lived. Just as the small residents of the houses destroyed by Russian missiles all over the country had to live. All passengers of cars with the inscription ‘Children’ shot by the occupiers should have lived," she wrote.

Zelenska noted that 485 children have already died in Ukraine due to Russian crimes.

"This pain is unfathomable. In the 21st century, in the middle of Europe, we are forced to talk about protecting our children from physical extermination. But the world must realize, if it hasn't realized yet: a threat to our children is a threat to children in general. Childhood has no borders," First Lady said.

She also emphasized that children are the responsibility of parents. So parents should make the present for their children "the best, the safest, and full of love - even in the midst of war."

As reported, every year on June 4, International Day of Children - Innocent Victims of Aggression, founded by the UN General Assembly, is marked. Ukraine joined the marking in 2021.