8 million Ukrainians are currently living abroad against their will — Sibiga
He made these remarks during Question Time to the government.
Serhiy Velmozhny, an MP from the ‘Dovira’ group, asked Sybiga whether there were plans to redirect funds allocated by European countries for payments to refugees towards financing job creation in Ukraine, and whether the restoration of damaged housing in Ukraine using European funds was being discussed.
According to Sibiga, approximately 8 million Ukrainians are currently living abroad against their will, and this is becoming a “security challenge” for Ukraine; therefore, the main strategic objective at present should be to create the necessary conditions for Ukrainians to return home.
Sybiga stated that “not all countries are interested in the return of Ukrainians”, given the contribution of Ukrainian citizens to the European economy, their level of qualifications and their adaptability in these countries.
“So, in fact, we will have to fight for our people to ensure they return,” the Foreign Minister noted.
He noted that, in particular, Switzerland has a special programme under which Ukrainians are reimbursed for travel expenses and accommodation costs upon returning to their homeland.
“We are in communication with both European institutions and specific capitals regarding how to provide material and financial support for the future or even current return of Ukrainians home,” Sibiga added.
As a reminder, it was previously reported that the EU may extend temporary protection for Ukrainians until 2028.
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