First lady Melania Trump says Russia's president responded to her letter about Ukrainian children. Photo: AP PHOTO

US first lady Melania Trump says she has secured an open line of communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin about repatriating children caught up in the Ukrainian war, and that some have been returned to their families with more to be reunited soon.

Subscribe now for unlimited access .

Login or signup to continue reading All articles from our website The digital version of Today's Paper All other regional websites in your area Continue

"This remains an ongoing effort," she told reporters at the White House on Friday.

She said Putin had responded to her letter earlier this year and that they remained in touch.

"President Putin and I have had an o

See Full Page