Over 1.6 million Ukrainians have returned to frontline areas in Kharkiv, Donetsk, Kherson, and Sumy, despite ongoing Russian attacks.
According to a Save the Children report, three-quarters of displaced parents cited homesickness and isolation as key reasons for returning. Financial stress also played a major role.
"Going back to a warzone is never a choice anyone makes lightly," said Sonia Khush, Save the Children’s Country Director in Ukraine.
Many families are choosing to return due to children's emotional distress in host communities.
The report highlights severe impacts on education and mental health caused by constant air raids and conflict exposure.
Over four years into the war, 3.4 million people remain displaced within Ukraine, while 5.9 million have sought refuge abroad. Nearly 4.4 million are registered in the EU under temporary protection.
As of December 2025, 9.1 million people lived in frontline areas-6.2 million never left home.