First Lady Melania Trump announced Thursday morning that seven Ukrainian children who were abducted during Russia’s invasion have been reunited with their families after what she described as quiet diplomatic efforts with Moscow, per the New York Post.
“Their bridge-building has created a tangible collaborative environment—an anchor for optimism. This cooperation will continue to drive the process forward through the next phase,” she added.
Melania, 55, announced on October 10 that an initial group of eight children had been reunited with their relatives after the establishment of an “open channel” with the Kremlin. Since the beginning of Moscow’s invasion in February 2022, thousands of Ukrainian children have been forcibly deported to Russian territory.
Kyiv authorities report that a minimum of 19,500 children are still missing, while unofficial humanitarian organizations estimate that the actual figure is probably much greater, The Post reported.
“The children who come back are subdued mentally — they’re broken,” Ukraine first lady Olena Zelenska told the outlet in August. “Only after they return do they start coming back out of their shells.”
This week, the first lady revealed the White House’s Christmas decorations and theme, “Home is Where the Heart Is,” to commemorate the holiday season, marking the fifth time she has been able to adorn 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue for the holidays.
The first lady’s decorations this year show the American spirit of “generosity, patriotism, and gratitude.”
This year, Trump has decorated the White House with over 25,000 feet of ribbon, over 2,000 strands of light, over 120 pounds of gingerbread, over 2,800 gold stars, over 10,000 blue butterflies, and over 700 feet of garland.
“Every detail of the 2025 White House Christmas decorations was personally selected by Mrs. Trump to honor the heart of America and the theme ‘Home Is Where The Heart Is,’” the White House told Fox News Digital.
The White House has 51 Christmas trees and 75 of Trump’s signature Christmas wreaths. The wreaths have classic red bows and hang outside the windows of the White House.
“The saying ‘Home is Where the Heart is’ resonates deeply with me, especially as I navigate the joys, challenges, and frequent motion that comes with motherhood and business,” the first lady told Fox News Digital. “The constant movement has taught me that home is not merely a physical space; rather, it is the warmth and comfort I carry within, regardless of my surroundings.”
“This Christmas, let’s celebrate the love we hold within ourselves and share it with the world around us,” she continued. “After all, wherever we are, we can create a home filled with grace, radiance, and endless possibilities.”
The theme in the East Room is “Home is Where the Heart Is: America, Our Home.”
The room is filled with patriotic decorations to celebrate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The decor is red, white, and blue, along with national symbols including eagles, the Great Seal, roses, and oak.
There are 56 eagle ornaments on the trees, one for each state and territory, and 250 stars to mark the birthday of the United States.
“We are deeply honored that America250 is represented in this year’s White House holiday celebration,” an America250 spokesman told Fox News Digital. “The decor and concept of the East Room highlights ‘America, Our Home,’ beautifully reflecting the spirit of unity, hope, and shared purpose that defines our nation.”
“As we enter a truly historic year leading up to America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, this holiday season offers an opportunity to reflect on what connects us as Americans,” the spokesman continued. “It’s also a moment to look ahead with excitement—to the many ways we’ll come together in the year ahead to honor our past, celebrate our present, and imagine our collective future.”
