EU Tightens Protection Rules for Ukrainian Men

European Union member states have decided that Ukrainians subject to military service will no longer be eligible for the simplified temporary protection regime, according to the Blue News website.

The new rules will take effect upon publication in the Official Journal of the EU. An exception will apply only to individuals who have already completed military service or are exempt from it.

Men between approximately 23 and 60 years old, who are subject to a travel ban under Ukrainian rules, will now only be able to apply for asylum, a status that is significantly harder to obtain.

The changes do not apply to Ukrainians who have already been granted temporary protection in the EU, nor to women, children or men with permission to leave the country. Member states argue that Ukraine needs sufficient soldiers for its defense.

Critics, on the other hand, point out that the measure will increase the administrative burden and may also affect people who refuse military service based on the right to conscientious objection.

(mja)