Photo: EPA
The European Union has proposed extending temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees until March 4, 2028, while excluding new arrivals who leave Ukraine to avoid mandatory military service. The proposal was discussed with the Ukrainian government, according to European Commissioner for Migration Magnus Brunner, as reported by European Pravda.
Brunner said the initiative reflects Ukraine's evolving defense and reconstruction needs.
Under the proposal, temporary protection would not be granted to newly arrived individuals who are not legally permitted to leave Ukraine because of military obligations under Ukrainian law.
"This is something Ukraine asked us to do, and this is what we are doing," Brunner said.
According to the commissioner, the issue was extensively discussed with Ukrainian officials and EU member states.
He stressed that the extension would continue to protect Ukrainian families who have already established their lives in Europe by finding employment, contributing to local economies, learning the language, attending school, or starting businesses.
Earlier, Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Michael O'Flaherty warned against prematurely ending protection and assistance for Ukrainian refugees. He expressed concern over growing pressure to withdraw temporary protection from certain groups, including men of military age and people from regions considered relatively safer within Ukraine.
