They leave marks on lives, especially those of children who lose everything. For some, safety is found in unexpected places, but that safety can be fleeting.
In Kraków, two Ukrainian siblings, Ela and Wowa, were brought to safety in 2022 after escaping their war-torn homeland with their adoptive mother.
Tragedy struck when she passed away suddenly, leaving the children orphaned once more, according to WP.
Their future looked uncertain until Róża, a Polish police officer, stepped in. Initially a temporary guardian, Róża became their foster mother, offering the siblings a new home and stability.
Ukraine Demands the Kids Sent Back
Ela and Wowa faced immense challenges. Wowa suffers from PTSD, while his younger sister struggles with emotional trauma.
Róża worked tirelessly to help them heal. Slowly, they began calling her "mom" and adapting to their new life in Poland. But just as they started to feel secure, a new threat emerged.
In late 2022, the Ukrainian consulate demanded the siblings be returned to Ukrainian care. Initial plans suggested placement in a Ukrainian foster family in Poland.
When no suitable family could be found, officials proposed sending them back to Ukraine.
A recent court hearing revealed that, without a clear placement, the children might be sent to a state-run orphanage in Ukraine, where active conflict still rages.
Róża, heartbroken, has fought back. She argues that the children are deeply integrated into her family and the local community.
Sending them to an uncertain future would undo the progress they've made. Ukrainian authorities, however, cite legal obligations to repatriate their citizens.
Critics, including child welfare advocates and Polish lawmakers, have voiced concerns.
They argue that the best interests of the children should come first.
"How can you think of sending them back to chaos?" questioned one advocate.
