EU eyes limiting Ukrainian refugees, focusing on military-aged men

The European Commission is considering new measures that could restrict access to temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees within the European Union, particularly targeting military-aged men.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined the proposal in a letter to EU leaders. While aiming to extend the temporary protection mechanism for Ukrainians fleeing the war, the document stresses that any new measures must not compromise Ukraine's ability to defend itself. Western media interpreted this as a potential exclusion for men of conscription age.

This discussion arises from concerns voiced by several EU member states regarding the significant number of Ukrainians who have left the country since Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. These nations worry about the impact on Ukraine's capacity to sustain its war effort.

Some EU countries, including Poland and Germany, have already begun adjusting their support policies for Ukrainian refugees. Poland has reduced certain social benefits, while Germany is transitioning new arrivals to a system offering aid similar to asylum seekers, which is generally less than previous benefits. The current temporary protection directive is valid until March 4, 2027, but the Commission is preparing for the next phase, with a decision expected this summer.