Ukrainians are needed in Ukraine, Merz tells Zelensky

In a telephone conversation, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to prevent a mass exodus of young men from Ukraine to Germany. "They are needed in Ukraine," Merz said.

In September, 79-thousand Ukrainian refugees arrived in the European Union. It is the highest number since August 2023. The Union attributes the increase to Ukraine's August 2025 decision to allow men aged 18 to 22 to cross the border freely.

More than 1.2 million Ukrainian refugees are currently hosted in Germany. Germany plans to adjust social benefits for Ukrainian refugees so that "the incentive to work outweighs the incentive to stay in the welfare system," Merz said. Under a bill to be approved by the cabinet next week, Ukrainians who arrive in Germany after April 1, 2025, will receive lower benefits under the Refugee Assistance Act.

Access to the labour market will be maintained. Ukrainians will be able to benefit from counselling and job offers.

(reuters, sie)