Andrea Innocenti Germany has opened its doors to approximately one million Ukrainian refugees since Russia's large-scale invasion began. Of these, approximately 450.000 are men, according to official figures from 2025. This massive influx has raised important questions both within Germany and at the European Union level , particularly regarding temporary protection and the role of these men of fighting age.
The situation of Ukrainian refugees in Germany
Ukraine has been under martial law since, meaning that men between the ages of 25 and 60, deemed fit for military service, are barred from leaving the country. Despite this, approximately 1,17 million adult Ukrainian men are currently enjoying temporary protection across the EU.
This led to an intense debate between Kyiv, Brussels and European capitals.
Pressure to return to Ukraine
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to limit the departure of young men from Ukraine during a meeting in. At a press conference in April this year, Zelenskyy said the return of men of fighting age was a matter of fairness.
The European Union's responses
In July, the EU introduced a ban on men of combat age from accessing its refugee protection program, in response to Ukraine's evolving military needs . This ban applies only to new applicants and not to those already residing in the EU.
This decision reflects the delicate balance between the need to provide humanitarian protection and support for the Ukrainian armed forces. The situation continues to evolve, with significant implications for the security and stability of the region.
The Axel Springer Global Reporters Network , which includes publications such as POLITICO, Business Insider, WELT, BILD, and Onet, is closely monitoring these developments. Their extensive coverage, spanning online, print, TV, and audio platforms, reaches hundreds of millions of people worldwide, providing in-depth analysis and timely updates on this evolving crisis.