• Trump and von der Leyen discuss missing children issue due to the Ukraine conflict.
• Melania Trump sends a heartfelt letter to Putin urging the protection of children.
• Ukrainian President Zelensky expresses gratitude for the Trumps' involvement.
• Over 19,000 Ukrainian children are reported abducted amid the conflict.

US President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen have focused on the global issue of missing children during the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Trump described it as “a subject at the top of all lists” in a post on Truth Social, emphasizing the need for collaborative action to reunite these children with their families. He stated, “Ursula von der Leyen, the distinguished and Highly Respected President of the European Commission, and I have been discussing the massive Worldwide problem of missing children,” highlighting the urgency of the matter, according to Indiatimes, aa, and The Hill.

In a significant gesture, First Lady Melania Trump sent a letter to Russian President Vladimir Putin, expressing distress over the plight of children affected by the conflict. The letter emphasized that “all children, regardless of where they are born, share the same dream of love, opportunity, and safety from danger.” Melania urged Putin to consider his role in protecting these children's innocence and potential, stating, “Mr. Putin, you can singlehandedly restore their melodic laughter.” This appeal was reportedly well received and contributed to continued diplomatic discussions, according to Indiatimes, aa, and The Hill.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude for the attention that Melania Trump's efforts brought to “one of the most painful and difficult issues of this war,” which involves over 19,000 Ukrainian children reportedly taken from their homes and thrust into Russian society since the invasion began in February 2022. Zelensky thanked both Trumps for their compassion and reiterated the importance of their involvement in advocating for these children's return, according to Indiatimes, aa, and The Hill.