EU talks about restrictions for Ukrainians amid the arrival of 100,000 young men aged 18-22

European politicians are once again whispering about restrictions for Ukrainians. In Poland and Germany, where the largest number of Ukrainian refugees in the EU live, disputes have intensified over the sharp increase in the number of men aged 18–22 who entered after the easing of exit rules from Ukraine. 

This is reported by Politico.

How many Ukrainian men have arrived in Poland and Germany

According to the Polish border service, from the beginning of the year until the end of August, 45.3 thousand men aged 18–22 entered Poland. After the rule change, it has already reached 98.5 thousand, averaging 1600 per day. In Germany, the influx grew from 19 per week in August to 1400–1800 in October, according to local Interior Ministry data.

Ukrainian youth in Germany must serve in Ukraine

After such changes, accusations that some young people are avoiding military service are increasingly heard in Berlin and Warsaw, which may affect support for Ukraine in society.

This dynamic has become an argument for conservatives and right-wing forces in Germany. A representative of the German conservatives, Jürgen Hardt, stated: 

«We are not interested in young Ukrainians spending time in Germany instead of defending their country». In Poland, the Confederation party called the situation «a burden for taxpayers».

Social benefits in Poland for Ukrainians are now in question

In Poland and Germany, there are more than 2.2 million Ukrainians living. Some right-wing parties are pressuring governments over social benefits, claiming they are too generous. Polish President Karol Nawrocki has already vetoed a law on supporting Ukrainians.

Restrictions for Ukrainians in Germany

In Germany, about 490 thousand working-age Ukrainians receive long-term unemployment benefits. The government there is considering restricting payments.

In Berlin, officials are not yet ready for drastic measures. They propose to wait for statistics and find out if the current spike is temporary. Meanwhile, some politicians hint: if Kyiv does not adjust the rules itself, the EU may revise the temporary protection regime.