Germany moves to limit Ukrainian men seeking asylum — Merz announces shift

“We will work closely”

“We will work closely (with Ukraine – ed.) when it comes on Ukrainian citizens who have sought refuge in our country and will make it easier for them to return home,” he said.

Merz added that Berlin and Kyiv will cooperate to limit the number of Ukrainian men seeking asylum in Germany.

“It is crucial that these men are there to help their country,” the German chancellor said.

Zelenskyy noted that the relevant services of Ukraine and Germany should address the issue of Ukrainian men leaving the country illegally.

“As for young people abroad, they are in different categories. I agree with you regarding those of mobilization age who left temporarily but ended up staying for years, as well as those who left in violation of the law — the relevant services of both countries must deal with this,” he said.

The president emphasized that Ukraine’s Armed Forces would like these men to return, as rotations are needed for soldiers.

“Our Armed Forces would like them to return because it’s a matter of fairness. Our people on the front lines need rotation. Even though our soldiers are strong, they have families. Responsibility must be shared by every citizen,” Zelenskyy said.

He added that there are also other young people abroad who are not of mobilization age and have the right to stay.

It is worth recalling that Europe is currently reviewing its approach to temporary protection for Ukrainians. The idea of fully ending it after March 2027 has already been abandoned, and a new format is now being discussed.

In addition, Norway is changing its rules for Ukrainian men. Newly arrived men aged 18 to 60 will no longer automatically receive temporary collective protection.