Locals react to Russian adoption controversy

GREEN BAY - Russian president Vladimir Putin says he will sign a controversial bill that prevents his country's children from being adopted by Americans.

Analysts say the adoption changes are in retaliation for American laws sanctioning Russian officials deemed human rights violators.

Putin is pointing the finger back at Americans, arguing the United States lets violence against adoptees go unpunished.

It's estimated more than 60,000 Russian children have been taken in by Americans during the past two decades.

One of those families is in Hobart.

Sisters Galina and Victoria spent most of their childhood knowing only a Russian orphanage.

"We wore the same clothes for months on end," said Galina Kariean. "Didn't get much to eat, bath once a month, no toys."

However, both sisters became part of the MacVittie family in 1998. It didn't take them long to adjust.

"We used to fight over toys too," Galina said. "Doesn't every child?" responded Victoria.

Now all grown up, they couldn't be more grateful to call Northeast Wisconsin their home, and their parents are too.

"Like I say, they had problems like any kid has, but they've been a joy and it's been wonderful living with them," said father Don MacVittie.

This family is one of many success stories within the state.

"We've had families that have adopted sibling groups from Russia, teenagers, older children and they've been very successful in integrating with the families here," said Angie Flannery, the assistant director of the Community Adoption Center in Green Bay.

UNICEF estimates there are around 740,000 children not in parental custody in Russia.

But news of barring Americans from adopting Russian children worries those in the industry.

"Russia is one of the countries that Americans adopt from frequently, it's one of the top countries where we see international adoptions," Flannery explained. "So it's very concerning to see what will happen with the children in those orphanages."

The whole experience has inspired Galina and Victoria to adopt in the future.

They hope to give others a fresh start, just like them.

"We're definitely American children but you never forget where you came from," Victoria said.

Putin's top children's rights official has suggested expanding the adoption ban to other countries.

He claims such a move would encourage more Russian families to adopt Russian children.

Currently, 18,000 Russians are waiting to adopt a child.