The European Commission proposes extending temporary protection for refugees from Ukraine for another year - until March 4, 2028, stipulating that
"temporary protection will generally not be granted to newly arriving persons whom the Ukrainian authorities have not allowed to leave Ukraine due to their military obligations," the EU institution reported on Friday, writes UNN.
Today the European Commission proposes extending temporary protection for another year for persons fleeing Russia's war against Ukraine, while taking into account Ukraine's overall capacity to defend itself. In doing so, the European Commission reaffirms its unwavering commitment to support Ukraine for as long as it takes
Russia, it is stated, continues its unprovoked aggressive war, "resulting in the situation in Ukraine remaining unstable." Therefore, the purpose of this European Commission proposal, as noted, is "twofold":
- "first, to ensure continued legal certainty, stability and predictability by extending temporary protection for another year until March 4, 2028, since the need for protection of persons fleeing Ukraine remains evident";
- "second, to align protection needs with Ukraine's overall capacity to defend itself against Russia's illegal aggressive war. To ensure this, temporary protection will generally not be granted to newly arriving persons whom the Ukrainian authorities have not allowed to leave Ukraine due to their military obligations."
"At the same time, it is important that Member States further step up preparations for a coordinated transition from temporary protection – in line with the 2025 EU Council Recommendation. This should include both the possibility of transitioning to long-term legal resident status and opportunities for sustainable return and reintegration in Ukraine when the situation permits. This process has already begun in many Member States and should remain a priority," the statement reads.
The European Commission, it is stated, "will develop, in close cooperation with interested Member States and the Ukrainian authorities, a pilot programme for voluntary return and recovery." The programme will support those wishing to return with practical support in key areas such as jobs, housing and education in Ukraine.
Special Envoy for Ukrainian Affairs in the EU, Ylva Johansson, will also continue to work with Member States and Ukraine on this issue.
"The EU Council must now adopt the European Commission's proposal," the statement said.
"If circumstances in Ukraine change, allowing for gradual return and sustainable reintegration in Ukraine, the European Commission may submit a proposal to the EU Council to suspend temporary protection before its scheduled expiry date," the statement reads.
Addendum
Nearly 4.4 million persons displaced from Ukraine currently benefit from temporary protection in the EU, with their number remaining stable and slightly increasing since 2024.