Will EU send refugees home after Ukraine war ends? Expert predicts

He expressed hope that early termination of the status will not occur. Additionally, in his opinion, there is a consensus among EU lawmakers that the protection system for Ukrainians should remain at least until a peace agreement with security guarantees for Ukraine is signed.

"Let's imagine that peace has come and the EU Council has canceled temporary protection for Ukrainians. Consequently, Ukrainian protection will no longer be governed by EU supranational legislation. All issues concerning our fellow citizens who arrived in the EU after February 24, 2022, and received this protection, will be regulated at the national level in each country of the bloc. And countries will act differently," he said.

At the same time, Haidutskyi is confident that the overwhelming majority of countries will offer Ukrainians a transition period so they can switch to the general conditions for foreigners in the country. This could involve obtaining work visas, permits, residence cards, etc.

Guarantees for Ukrainians

According to him, this means that all interested parties need to "get to work."

"First, local employers, if they need Ukrainians who were hired during the temporary protection period. Second, 'sponsors' - residents of the country who have entered into relationships with Ukrainians. Third, schools and universities where Ukrainians began studying," he said.

Moreover, this includes communities and municipalities: if a Ukrainian, who has registered in their area, holds a local entrepreneur status or plans to acquire another privileged status, such as a digital nomad, golden visa holder, etc., added Haidutskyi.

Ukrainian refugees in Europe

After Russia's invasion in February 2022, the EU Temporary Protection Directive (TPD) became a lifeline for nearly 4.3 million Ukrainians.

However, as reported by Euractiv, there is currently no clear plan that will allow refugees to stay after a ceasefire with Russia.