The European Commission proposes changes to temporary protection status for Ukrainians, potentially excluding males aged 23-60 due to military obligations, while existing protections for those already in the EU remain unchanged.
The European Commission proposed extending temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees until March 2028, but with an exclusion for newly arrived men of fighting age (23-60) who have military obligations, aiming to balance protection needs with Ukraine's defense.
The European Commission has proposed restricting temporary protection for newly arriving Ukrainian refugees fit for military service, a measure requested by Ukraine. This first-time proposal is likely to be approved, while temporary protection for other Ukrainians is extended until March 2028.
Ukraine requests EU to exclude military-aged men from temporary protection to address troop shortages; EU considers extending protection until 2028 with possible exclusions.
EU home affairs ministers show strong support for excluding Ukrainian men aged 23-60 from temporary protection due to potential military conscription, ahead of the scheme's March 2027 expiration.
The EU is debating restricting temporary protection for Ukrainian men aged 23-60, who are eligible for military service. Germany and Poland are pushing for the change, citing increased influx of men and Ukraine's request for their return. Some countries oppose the idea, while others support extending the current framework.
Poland's Deputy Interior Minister Maciej Duszczyk announced support for an EU proposal to restrict temporary protection for Ukrainians who illegally left their country or are of conscription age. The EU is considering changes to the protection mechanism, which currently expires in March 2027.
EU envoy Ylva Johansson proposed revoking temporary protection for Ukrainian men of fighting age, questioning the logic of granting status to those barred from leaving Ukraine. The suggestion is under discussion among EU members.
