EU Extends Temporary Protection for Ukrainian Civilians Until 2028, Excluding Draft‑Age Men

EU Extends Temporary Protection for Ukrainian Civilians Until 2028, Excluding Draft‑Age Men

• Approximately 4.4 million Ukrainians have been residing in the EU under temporary protection status since fleeing the conflict.

BRUSSELS – EU member states voted on Wednesday to extend temporary protection for Ukrainian civilians fleeing the war until March 2028, while excluding men of military‑age who enter the bloc.
The EU triggered emergency protections for Ukrainians after Russia’s 2022 invasion, granting them the right to live, work and claim benefits across the 27‑member states.
As the conflict proceeds into its fifth year, EU ambassadors approved a proposal to prolong these rights until March 2028.
However, at Kyiv’s request to address manpower needs, the EU said the arrangement will now exclude individuals subject to the military draft who arrive in the bloc.
Under Ukrainian wartime law, men aged 23‑60 are prohibited from leaving the country.
The EU stated that, taking into account Ukraine’s evolving defense requirements, future temporary protection will be granted only to those who meet their military obligations in Ukraine.
This limitation applies solely to new applicants; existing beneficiaries will continue to enjoy their rights.
Approximately 4.4 million Ukrainians are currently residing in the EU under temporary protection, Brussels reported.
Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic host the largest communities.
Adult men represent roughly 27 % of those benefiting from EU protection, women 43 %, and minors 30 % according to EU data.
The EU announced last year that it aims to transition away from the current system by offering longer‑term legal residence or assisting returns when conditions permit.

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