Melania Trump has shared details about her ‘open line of communication’ with Vladimir Putin as the conflict in Ukraine persists.
In a speech from the White House on October 10, the First Lady discussed her interactions with Putin, highlighting the plight of children affected by the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
Last August, Melania initially reached out to Putin through a letter to address these concerns. She noted that the Russian president ‘responded in writing,’ indicating a ‘willingness to engage with [her] directly’.
As per Melania, Putin’s response included information about Ukrainian children currently in Russia, which led to the establishment of an ‘open channel of communication’ concerning their welfare.
“For the past few months, both sides have participated in several backchannel meetings and calls, all in good faith,” Melania stated. “We have agreed to cooperate with each other for the benefit of all people involved in this war.
“My representative has been working directly with President Putin’s team to ensure the safe unification of children with their families between Russia and Ukraine.”
Consequently, Melania announced that eight children who had been experiencing ‘living in turmoil’ were reunited with their families in the past day.
“Russia has demonstrated a willingness to disclose objective and detailed information reflective for the current situation,” she remarked, noting that the Russian federation provided full details regarding the children involved in the recent reunifications.
Melania emphasized that efforts to reunite more children with their families are ongoing, stating: “I hope peace will come soon. It can begin with our children. Thank you.”
Her address followed a recent warning from Russia to various countries, including the US, about nuclear testing.
Russian deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov addressed the press, saying: “If a country with the capability makes the erroneous decision to conduct nuclear tests, and Washington is clearly in our focus, then we will retaliate immediately.”