US Senators Propose Terrorism Designation for Russia, Belarus Over Ukrainian Child Abductions

U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal are considering bipartisan legislation to designate Russia and Belarus as state sponsors of terrorism due to the systematic abduction of over 19,000 Ukrainian children during the ongoing war. The bill would require Russia to return the missing children within 60 days or face official designation, which would significantly increase U.S. sanctions and diplomatic pressure. The abductions reportedly include placing children for adoption in Russia and even forcing some to fight against Ukraine, actions viewed by Kyiv and human rights groups as part of a broader strategy to exert control over Ukraine. First Lady Melania Trump has also expressed support for Ukraine by sending a letter to President Putin calling for an end to child abductions. The issue has drawn international condemnation, with the International Criminal Court issuing arrest warrants related to the kidnappings. Senators emphasize that the return of abducted children should be a condition for any peace agreement, and President Trump has indicated potential unilateral actions to further pressure Russia.