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Merz backed restrictions on men leaving Ukraine for the EU

Katerina Melnychenko
Katerina Melnychenko Deputy Editor-in-Chief
Merz backed restrictions on men leaving Ukraine for the EU
Friedrich Merz during a joint press conference with Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Berlin
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has stated that Berlin supports Ukraine’s measures to restrict the travel of men of conscription age to European Union countries. According to him, such steps are necessary to enable Ukraine to defend itself in the context of a full-scale war.

According to UNN, Merz made this statement during a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The Chancellor said that Germany supports Ukraine’s efforts to restrict the travel of men of conscription age to the EU.

Merz also stated that such decisions are justified in wartime, when the state must ensure its own defence, preserve its mobilisation resources and maintain the resilience of society. According to him, Ukraine’s partners should treat these measures with understanding.

An UNN report quotes the Chancellor as describing these restrictions as “absolutely necessary” for Ukraine to defend itself. He added that this issue concerns not only the front line but also the preservation of Ukrainian society’s unity and the country’s future reconstruction.

Merz also emphasised that Germany would continue to support Ukraine in the military, humanitarian and economic spheres. Zelenskyy’s visit to Berlin on 14 April was dedicated to further support for Ukraine from Germany.

As reported by ThePublic, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that Ukraine does not need Taurus missiles, as it already possesses its own effective long-range weapons, which it manufactures itself. Merz also highlighted the financial difficulties that prevent the provision of additional arms supplies.

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