Return of men from Germany: Ukraine discusses arrangements with Berlin
This was reported by Ukrinform, citing Ukraine’s Ambassador to Germany, Oleksiy Makeyev.
Oleksiy Makeyev confirmed that Kyiv and Berlin are discussing the return of Ukrainians of conscription age who left Ukraine illegally.
“I will not disclose these mechanisms just yet. They are currently being discussed as part of this working group’s activities,” the ambassador said.
According to him, work with Ukrainians in Germany has two components. The first is the activities of the Unity Hub centres, which help the state maintain contact with the Ukrainian community. The second is the joint work of Ukrainian and German authorities on how to facilitate the return of citizens.
What is a Unity Hub?
The first Unity Hub centre has already opened in central Berlin. Makeyev noted that such centres are intended to be places where Ukrainians can access government services, advice and support.
According to the diplomat, representatives of the Pension Fund were already present at the centre in its early days, and Ukrainian pensioners were able to consult them.
The ambassador emphasised that, through Unity Hub, the Ukrainian state is effectively expanding its presence abroad and drawing closer to its citizens. Ukrainian civil society organisations in Germany can also make use of such centres.
How many Ukrainians are in Germany
Makeyev stated that it is important for Ukraine to understand the structure of the Ukrainian community in Germany. According to him, there are currently around 1.3 million Ukrainians in the country.
The ambassador noted that the proportion of those who are already working, paying social security contributions and integrating into German society is growing. At the same time, he said, these figures are not yet on a par with those in Poland.
As of 30 May, there were a total of 1.348 million refugees from Ukraine in Germany. Of these, 356,000 were men aged between 18 and 63.
Why Ukraine and Germany are discussing repatriation
Kyiv and Berlin are keen to ensure that Ukrainians do not lose touch with Ukraine. Makeyev emphasised that this is also important for the future reconstruction of the country.
“It is in our interests and in Germany’s interests to ensure that we can count on professionally trained Ukrainians during the reconstruction of Ukraine. This is our shared interest,” said the ambassador.
Earlier, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz also spoke of the need to work towards the return of young Ukrainian men to their homeland.
At present, there is no publicly approved mechanism for the return of men from Germany. The ambassador merely confirmed that relevant options are being discussed between Ukrainian and German authorities.
Makayev also did not disclose exactly which measures might be implemented or when they might come into effect.
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