European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has signaled support for limiting temporary protection status for some Ukrainians in the EU, particularly military-age men, according to a letter sent to bloc leaders.
According to German outlet Spiegel, the European Commission plans to propose extending temporary protection for Ukrainians fleeing Russia’s full-scale invasion while narrowing eligibility criteria.
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Von der Leyen wrote that the extension should be designed so as not to undermine Ukraine’s ability to defend itself.
While she did not provide details, the wording has been widely interpreted as a reference to military-age Ukrainian men.
Earlier this month, EU interior ministers discussed proposals backed by Germany and several other member states to exclude Ukrainians aged 23 to 60 from simplified protection rules.
Under the EU’s Temporary Protection Directive, Ukrainians currently receive protection without having to undergo individual asylum procedures.
More than 4.3 million Ukrainians have received temporary protection status across the European Union since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in 2022.
Growing pressure across Europe
Several European countries have tightened support programs for Ukrainian refugees.
Poland reduced some social benefits for Ukrainians in March, while Germany stopped granting newly arrived Ukrainians access to its standard citizens’ benefit program in April 2025, directing them instead to lower asylum support payments.
Reaffirming Ukraine Support a ‘Priority’ Ahead of NATO Summit
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz previously argued that more young Ukrainian men should remain in Ukraine, saying the country needs them at home during the war.
The current EU temporary protection framework is set to expire on March 4, 2027. Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner said the commission will soon present a proposal to extend it.
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