Kuleba Predicts Only a Critical Minority of Refugees Will Return to Ukraine

Kuleba's Forecast for Ukraine's Demographic Future

According to Главком: In an interview with journalist Dmitry Gordon, former Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba shared his outlook on the country's demographic prospects and the potential for a mass refugee return. Kuleba stated that he does not believe the return of Ukrainians who fled abroad will occur on a large scale.

“Let's not deceive ourselves. A minority will return-I would say, a critical minority,” he remarked.

These comments come as Ukraine faces immense challenges in rebuilding its population and economy after the Russian invasion.

The 2020 Phone Call Between Zelenskyy and Putin

During the same interview, Kuleba also addressed the summer 2020 phone conversation between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin. That discussion focused on the situation in Donbas and the implementation of the Minsk agreements. Kuleba emphasized that after Vladimir Medinsky rejoined the Russian delegation, it became clear Moscow was in no hurry to reach genuine agreements.

Regarding Ukraine's future, Kuleba noted that the baseline scenario for the country in 2026 is a continuation of the war. He also expressed deep concern over the demographic consequences for Ukraine.

“If the Ukrainian state does not launch a qualitatively new policy toward Ukrainians abroad, then in the next generation the figure of 11 million will certainly be halved. That is, assimilation will occur within one generation,” Dmytro Kuleba stressed.

Kuleba's statements highlight serious worries about the further development of Ukraine's demographic situation and the urgent need for new policies to support the diaspora. These issues remain critically relevant amid the ongoing conflict and the country's socio-economic challenges. Developing effective strategies for the return and integration of Ukrainians could be a vital step for strengthening national identity and future stability.

In light of Kuleba's insights on the demographic challenges facing Ukraine, it is essential to understand the broader context of Ukraine's relationship with Russia. For instance, during a crucial phone call in 2020, tensions escalated as Putin accused Zelenskyy of complicity in the death of a prominent separatist leader. This exchange sheds light on the ongoing complexities in Ukrainian-Russian relations, which continue to impact the nation's future. To learn more about this pivotal moment in diplomacy, read about Putin's accusations against Zelenskyy.