To the European Union – a request from Ukraine

The European Union is currently deliberating the extension of temporary protection for Ukrainian men, a measure that could see changes in its application. Discussions are underway among member states regarding the conditions under which this protection, initially granted following Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, would continue beyond its current validity in March 2027.

According to reports, several EU countries are considering narrowing the scope of the extended protection. A key point of contention is the potential exclusion of men of conscription age or individuals who have illegally departed Ukraine. This proposed restriction would primarily affect new applicants seeking temporary protection status.

“

This is what Ukrainians are asking us to do.

The European Commission is anticipated to present a proposal in the coming weeks concerning the future of temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees. While all EU member states reportedly support extending the directive until March 2028, many advocate for modifications to its coverage based on specific conditions. This comes as the current program, which allows Ukrainians to live and work across the EU without applying for national asylum, was agreed to be extended last year and is now valid until March 2027.

Internal EU Council documents indicate that one of the discussed options involves extending the temporary protection while simultaneously restricting its applicability, particularly for men eligible for conscription or those who left Ukraine unlawfully. Some governments have expressed concern that an increasing proportion of new arrivals are men of conscription age. They argue that revising the mechanism, potentially "for Ukraine's benefit," could support the country's resistance efforts and future reconstruction.

“

All EU member states agree that the application of the directive guaranteeing temporary protection for Ukrainians should be extended until March 2028.